Anthropology is about “making the strange familiar, and the familiar strange”

We all come from different backgrounds and have experienced different realities, which means we all have different worldviews. Our conceptions of the world and our lives are shaped by how we are socialized and our daily lived experiences. The readings in Unit 6 encourage us to question the systems we know and to make meaning from understanding the world we exist in. These scholarly texts further propel us to be aware of our prejudices, preconceptions, and assumptions.

Two Teachings/Beliefs from My Ethnic Group

Respect for Elders

One of the core teachings in my ethnic group is the deep respect for elders. This belief is not just about politeness but extends to how decisions are made within families and communities. Elders are seen as the keepers of wisdom and experience. From a young age, we are taught to listen to and value the advice of older people. This respect manifests in various aspects of life:

-Family Decisions: Major decisions, such as career choices, marriage, and financial matters, are often made in consultation with elders. Their opinions are given significant weight because they are believed to have accumulated knowledge and foresight through their life experiences.

Cultural Practices: During cultural and religious ceremonies, elders play a central role. They lead rituals and provide guidance to ensure traditions are upheld correctly.

Daily Interactions: In everyday life, speaking to elders with a tone of respect, using appropriate titles, and prioritizing their comfort and needs are common practices.

This respect influences how we interact with others, emphasizing humility and deference. It shapes my worldview by making me more inclined to consider historical and experiential perspectives in my decision-making process. Understanding that my elders have seen and experienced more, I tend to value tradition and continuity, which helps me navigate modern challenges with a grounded perspective.

Community Over Individualism

Another significant belief is the emphasis on community over individualism. In my culture, the well-being of the group is often placed above personal success. This collective approach is evident in various aspects of life:

Celebrations and Mourning: During festivals, weddings, and funerals, the entire community comes together. These events are not just for the immediate family but for everyone, reflecting the interconnectedness of our lives.

Problem-Solving: When someone faces a problem, be it financial difficulties, health issues, or personal crises, the community rallies around to provide support. This can include pooling resources, offering emotional support, or providing practical help like cooking meals or helping with chores.

Daily Support : The concept of “it takes a village” is alive and well. Child-rearing, for example, is a communal effort where neighbors and extended family members play active roles in the upbringing of children.

This communal approach has taught me the importance of cooperation and mutual aid, shaping my view that individual actions should benefit the broader community. It instills a sense of responsibility towards others and encourages a lifestyle where success is measured not just by personal achievements but by the well-being of those around me.

 Classroom Discussion

In class, we will share our written texts with a classmate next to us and discuss what information from our texts is strange or familiar to each other. This exercise will serve multiple purposes:

Highlighting Differences: By discussing our beliefs and teachings, we can see how different cultural backgrounds shape our worldviews in unique ways. What is normal and obvious to one person might be completely foreign to another.

Identifying Biases: As we talk about our beliefs, we might discover biases or assumptions we hold. Recognizing these biases is the first step towards understanding and overcoming them.

Reflecting on Prejudices: Through honest conversation, we can reflect on any prejudices we might have. For example, if a classmate’s belief seems strange, we can question why we find it strange and whether our reaction is based on a lack of understanding or a preconceived notion.

Fostering Empathy: By learning about the values and experiences of others, we can develop greater empathy and appreciation for different perspectives.

During our discussion, we will note our biases and prejudices and critically reflect upon these points with our classmates. This exercise will help us better understand how our unique backgrounds influence our perspectives and how anthropology helps us see the familiar in new ways and understand the strange more deeply. Ultimately, this will enhance our ability to think critically about our own beliefs and those of others, fostering a more inclusive and informed worldview.