ANTHROPOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE OF THE SELF

• What is the holistic view of human nature in anthropology?


  It holds a holistic view of human nature.
• How do cultural and biological processes interact in anthropology?


  They interact to shape human experience.
• How are culture and self related in anthropology?


  Culture and self are complementary concepts to be understood in relation to one another.
• What topics will be discussed in the study of anthropology?

  • Nature and Nurture
  • Cultural construction of Self and Identity
  • Egocentric and Sociocentric Concepts
  • Identity Toolbox
  • Personal Naming
  • Rites of Passage
• How did Edward Tylor define culture?


  As “the complex whole which includes knowledge, belief, art, law, morals, custom, and any other capabilities acquired by man as a member of society.”
• How is the concept of self viewed in anthropology?


  It is viewed as an autonomous and distinct individual.
• What does the concept of self prioritize in anthropology?


  It prioritizes differences and uniqueness.
• How is the egocentric view of self characterized?


  It is viewed as autonomous and distinct.
• How is the sociocentric view of self characterized?


  It is viewed as not autonomous but relative and conditional.
• What does the sociocentric view prioritize?


  It prioritizes similarities and interdependence.
• What is the Identity Toolbox in anthropology?


  • A person's identity that he or she chooses to emphasize in constructing a social self.
  • Identity exists within individuals.
  • Associated with kinship, gender, occupation, race, religion, and language.
• What is the purpose of personal naming in different cultures?


  It establishes a child’s birthright and social identity.
• How do personal names represent the self?


  They individualize a person and legitimize their membership in a group.
• What are some naming practices in different cultures?


  • Arctic Canada: Name children after deceased relatives.
  • Filipinos: Sacred names bless and protect children.
  • Aymara Indians: Special ritual for naming.
  • Icelanders: Name infants soon after birth.
• What are the stages of Rites of Passage?


  1. Separation: Leaving one identity.
  2. Liminal: Transition phase.
  3. Incorporation: Adopting a new identity through rituals.
• Who introduced the concept of Rites of Passage?


  Arnold van Gennep.
• What does the concept of illusion of wholeness imply?


  It implies that the cohesiveness and continuity of self are only illusory.
• What obstacles must individuals overcome to attain self-identification?


  Traditionally established habits and parental imposed self-image.
• What must members of a multicultural society do to attain a stable self?


  They must internalize divergent cultural models and reject conflicting identifications.
• What is the most important philosophical task of the post-modern man?


  To “work on yourself” as in the Socratic method “know thyself.”