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Introduction to Anthropology and Personal Journey

  • The discussion opens with a focus on food and trade, specifically relating to how fish is bought and sold, mentioning the transportation of fish to Japan and its return via other means.
  • The speaker, Daniel Goldstein, is introduced as a professor of anthropology at Rutgers University.

Personal Background in Anthropology

  • Early Interest in Anthropology:
    • Goldstein was an undergraduate anthropology major.
    • Initially explored other academic disciplines before settling on anthropology.
    • His attraction to studying anthropology stemmed from a desire to travel and explore different cultures.
    • He emphasizes a classical reason many anthropologists are drawn to the field: the attraction to unfamiliar places and lives.
  • Evolution of Understanding:
    • Goldstein acknowledges that while he was initially drawn to anthropology for the exoticism of other cultures, his understanding of the discipline has evolved.
    • The realization that exoticism can exist in one’s own culture brings a deeper understanding to anthropology.

Definition of Anthropology

  • Goldstein conceptualizes anthropology as:
    • Global Nature: It reflects the interconnectedness of the modern world rather than merely studying distant 'exotic' cultures.
    • Relative Concept of Strange: Recognizes that what is considered 'strange' is relative and that local cultures hold complexities that are as rich as those found abroad.
    • Access through Engagement: Anthropology provides insight into people's lives through direct engagement and empathy, moving away from quantitative research.

Transnational Aspects of Anthropology

  • Local vs Global:
    • Goldstein emphasizes that anthropology encompasses both local and global dimensions, highlighting how global processes manifest locally.
    • Example of Human Rights:
    • Human rights discourse is tied to global institutions like the UN.
    • Fieldwork in a marginal Bolivian community revealed differing local interpretations of human rights compared to those discussed at the global level.
    • The concept is vernacularized through local terminology and understandings, which can influence broader discussions.
    • Example of Security:
    • Security is a major concern worldwide but has diverse meanings in local contexts.
    • In the Bolivian community, security issues revolve around personal safety from crime rather than national security concerns.

Field Research in Bolivia

  • Initial Attraction to Bolivia:
    • Goldstein was drawn to Bolivia due to a fellowship to study the Quechua language.
  • Community Dynamics:
    • He notes significant socio-political changes in Cochabamba, with an influx of former miners resulting in community reorganization amidst migration.
  • Adaptation of Research Focus:
    • Originally focused on migration from rural to urban areas.
  • Impactful Events:
    • A lynching incident caught his attention, which brought up critical issues related to crime, justice, legal access, and community responses to crime.
    • The event significantly influenced his research direction, aligning with emerging themes of policing and community justice.
    • He observed an increase in lynchings, leading to profound questions about crime and justice in marginalized communities, shaping his thesis and future work.