Using an Interpretivist Approach, Anthropologist Clifford Geertz (1926-2006) Argues That

question 63

Essay

Using an interpretivist approach, anthropologist Clifford Geertz (1926-2006) argues that seemingly straightforward actions such as winking have deep cultural meanings. Describe what constitutes an interpretivist approach. Next, provide your own example of a cultural action that you think conveys deep cultural meaning. What do you believe the action symbolizes culturally? How do you know that the action conveys deep cultural meaning and how did you learn its meaning? Would an individual need to be a member of the particular society in order to understand the deep cultural meaning of the action, or would anyone be able to interpret it correctly? Discuss why or why not.

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Definitions:

Jamais Vu

The phenomenon of experiencing a familiar situation as if it were unfamiliar or strange, often described as the opposite of déjà vu.

Eidetic Recall

The ability to vividly recall images from memory after only a few instances of exposure, with high precision for some time after exposure.

Visual Memory

The ability to remember and recall information presented visually after a brief period of observation.

Dissociative Identity Disorder

A severe form of dissociation, a mental process which produces a lack of connection in a person's thoughts, memory and sense of identity.