What's the difference between explorers, anthropologists and tourists?

Criticism of explorer Benedict Allen, rescued in Papua New Guinea, raises an important question: when is it legitimate to travel to remote communities?An anthropologist, an explorer and a tourist walk into a bar. They ’re each clutching a spear. The anthropologist describes how it was presented to her on her seventh fieldwork season by the elders of the tribe. The explorer regales them with the tale of how he won the spear upon completing an initiation challenge the tribe had set for him, filmed for a documenta ry. The tourist explains that he paid $10 for his at the market, and needs to get back now otherwise the cruise ship will leave without him …The media attention about themisadventure and recent rescue of British explorer Benedict Allen from Papua New Guinea, and the debate over whether his exploits areculturally appropriate in a post-colonial world, raise a question that ’s at the heart of anthropology itself. Why do we travel to other cultures? Who, if anyone, gives permission? Are only some reasons for travel valid? And once you’re there, what understanding do you hope to achieve?Continue reading...

Source: Guardian Unlimited Science - November 23, 2017 Category: Science Authors: Mary-Ann Ochota Tags: Science Anthropology Colonialism Travel Research Source Type: news