It is characteristic of the ethnocentrism of anthropology…
““It is characteristic of the ethnocentrism of anthropology that whereas the rationality of claims by African and other primitive diviners to be able to see what is not visible to the ordinary eye has long seemed to be a proper subject of investigation, the occult powers of our own diviners have been taken for granted. Magic has been regarded as a bizarre phenomenon, the artness of art has not.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Points out bias in anthropology that treats foreign divination as exotic while ignoring similar practices at home.
In simple terms: Anthropology often exoticizes others and neglects its own mysteries.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions about cultural “otherness.”
Themes
anthropology
ethnocentrism
bias
knowledge
culture
Mood
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- examining research bias
- recognizing hidden practices
- challenging academic norms
Key Concepts
critical thinking
self‑reflection
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this bias affect research?
- What “occult” practices exist locally?
A Different Perspective
May overgeneralize “primitive” versus “modern.”