The Dynamics of Culture

Cultures which survive have the property of change. Although some can only be preserved in toto within the environment in which they arose, most can take bits and pieces from other cultures and still retain their identity.

This ability to change must always be kept in the forefront when doing anthropological research. When the research was done has to be part of the analysis, as many cultures undergo changes within a generation or two.

For example, stepping into a classroom in 1970 one would encounter highly politicised students, many actively engaged in the Anti-War Movement, Feminism, Black Power, Civil Rights, etc.

Stepping into the same classroom in 2005 one encounters a rather apathetic bunch, more akin to those of the 1950s, who attended college to gain the qualifications for particular positions.

To attempt to use a monograph about University Students written in 1970 to understand the 2005 student, would ensure failure.

Hence, use that image when reading an ethnography done twenty or more years ago. The moment in time an ethnography reflects might be obsolete. One will be studying a culture that no longer exists, and find themselves making the most horrendous errors.

Although many instructors tend to cling to the studies they read as undergraduates, outside of a critical analysis of the methodology, the document might be worthless. Language changes. Words take up different meanings over time. In Jamaica in 1980s, the City buses were called "Chi- Chi" buses, because of the sound they made when stopping. The term "chi-chi", in the late 90s, became a euphemism for homosexuality.

A new editor, having spent the past fifteen years in London wrote "Chi-Chi bus drivers strike," which caused a near riot among drivers, and resulted in the Editor having to be removed.

Consider everything you "know" about another culture with suspicion. Be very careful in making assumptions. You can glance at a previous ethnography, but don't use it as a foundation.

Never forget, to survive change is vital, hence the culture you are about to study has changed since that document was published.