Re: ETHNOGRAPHIC METHODS

Leslie Johnson (ljohnson@UTKVX.UTK.EDU)
Fri, 7 Apr 1995 14:27:22 -0500

Hello again:
I would like to thank everyone who has responded to my earlier query
regarding ethnographic methods and the emic viewpoint. I received many
informative responses. However, I did receive one negative note, which
complained that I should not have mentioned that I was a student and that
my original query was too vague. Perhaps, my request was too vague but I
thought that all were welcome on ANTHRO-L, even us lowly students.
Anyway, I would like specify my earlier request. I am attempting
to approach the topic of collecting ethnographic data from a
cataloguer/indexer point of view. I am interested in the methods and
techniques for collecting ethnographic data and the problems that could
arise when translating the native language into the anthropologist's
language and still retaining the native viewpoint/original meaning.
If anyone can offer information or discussion on this topic
please contact me directly -- or post-it for all who might be interested.
Best, Leslie

*Leslie A. Johnson *LJOHNSON@UTKVX.UTK.EDU
*Library assistant-Cataloging *Hodges Library- U.T.-Knoxville
*Grad.Cultural anthro/Info science

"Surely, we are very unlike the Gods in their seats of eternal tranquillity
that we need illusions so much to keep us in action."
Margaret Fuller (1837)


On Thu, 6 Apr 1995, Leslie Johnson wrote:

> Hello:
> This is my first time posting to ANTHRO-L. I am currently working on a
> double masters:Cultural Anthropology/Information Science. For my most
> recent paper I am attempting to combine the two disciplines. I am seeking
> information regarding field techinques of collecting ethnographic
> information. Specifically dealing with the problem of retaining the emic
> viewpoint of the native group without interjecting Western bias.
> If anyone has information regarding this topic
> please respond to me personally.
> Thanks in advance :)
>
> *Leslie A. Johnson *LJOHNSON@UTKVX.UTK.EDU
> *Library assistant-Cataloging *Hodges Library- U.T.-Knoxville
> *Grad.Cultural anthro/Info science
>
> "Surely, we are very unlike the Gods in their seats of eternal tranquility
> that we need illusions so much to keep us in action."
> Margaret Fuller (1837)
>