Exam 3: Fieldwork: How Are Data Gathered

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Participant observation is a key method used by anthropologists to study and understand different cultures. However, this method comes with its own set of difficulties and challenges that anthropologists may encounter in the field. Some of these difficulties include gaining access and building rapport with the community, dealing with ethical dilemmas, and managing personal biases and emotions.

One of the main difficulties anthropologists may face is gaining access to the community they wish to study and building rapport with its members. This can be particularly challenging when studying closed or secretive societies. In "Shakespeare in the Bush" by Laura Bohannan, the author encountered difficulties in gaining acceptance and trust from the Tiv people of West Africa. Despite her efforts to immerse herself in their culture and participate in their daily activities, she struggled to fully integrate and gain the trust of the community members.

Ethical dilemmas also pose a significant challenge for anthropologists conducting participant observation. In "Body Ritual among the Nacirema" by Horace Miner, the author describes the ethical dilemma of observing and documenting the cultural practices of the Nacirema people without imposing his own cultural biases and judgments. Anthropologists must navigate the fine line between respecting the cultural practices of the community and addressing any potential harm or exploitation that may arise from their research.

Additionally, managing personal biases and emotions can be difficult for anthropologists during participant observation. In "Nisa: The Life and Words of a !Kung Woman" by Marjorie Shostak, the author describes her emotional involvement with the !Kung community and the challenges of maintaining objectivity while forming personal relationships with the people she was studying. Anthropologists must constantly reflect on their own biases and emotions to ensure that they do not influence their observations and interpretations of the culture they are studying.

In conclusion, participant observation presents several difficulties for anthropologists in the field, including gaining access and building rapport, navigating ethical dilemmas, and managing personal biases and emotions. By being aware of these challenges and actively addressing them, anthropologists can conduct more ethical and insightful research in their study of different cultures.