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:

Major Organic

Typically refers to the main or most important organic compound or structure in a particular context or reaction.

Organic Product

A compound containing carbon atoms that has been obtained from an organic reaction involving organic reactants.

Major Organic

Pertains to the primary or most significant carbon-containing compounds or molecules studied within organic chemistry.

Reaction Mechanism

The step-by-step sequence of elementary reactions by which an overall chemical change occurs, detailing the molecular level changes.