SEPT 13-14_M1_TUTORIAL EXERCISE

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207H1

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Electrical Engineering

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Feb 20, 2024

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Prof. Anisha Chadha ANT 207 – Fall 2023 Module 1 – Tutorial Exercise Instructions: Answer each of the 3 questions below in 100-300 words, after discussing with peers & your TA in tutorial. Complete sentences only please. 1. Should anthropologists do research in their own societies? Why or why not? Studying one's society as an anthropologist presents both benefits and difficulties. Engaging in ethnographic research within one's culture provides an opportunity to gain a profound and intricate comprehension of the local customs, norms, and values. Being a community member often comes with easier access to resources, subjects, and locations that may be difficult for outsiders to navigate. Moreover, anthropologists can recognize and comprehend the intricacies, subtleties, and contextual elements that individuals from outside cultures may fail to notice or misinterpret. However, some concerns have been raised. Bias and assumptions can also arise from familiarity. The anthropologist may unintentionally overlook certain practices or beliefs, not investigating them as thoroughly as they would in an unfamiliar environment. There is a possibility that critical analysis may be lacking because of this. In addition, personal relationships and loyalties can make the research process more complex and potentially affect objectivity. Anthropologists must study their societies to gain an insider's perspective. However, they must also be mindful of and actively address this type of research's potential biases and challenges. 2. Do you think there are contexts in which certain researchers should not be permitted? Why or why not? There are situations where allowing researchers to carry out studies may be inappropriate. Ethical considerations hold the utmost importance. For instance, any research that can potentially cause harm to participants, whether physical or psychological, should be subject to strict regulation or even prohibited altogether. Furthermore, it is essential to acknowledge that communities or individuals possess the right to decline involvement in research, particularly if they perceive it as a violation of their privacy, dignity, or cultural values. In certain situations where there are power imbalances, such as when researchers from developed nations study underprivileged communities in developing nations, there is a risk of unintentionally exploiting or misrepresenting the subjects involved. In some instances, environments like sacred sites or places hold great cultural significance that external researchers may not be allowed to access. This is done to honour and respect local customs and traditions. The safety, dignity, and rights of research subjects are paramount. It is crucial to respect their cultures and environments. In some cases, certain research activities or researchers may not be suitable due to these factors.

3. Is it possible to write about people in an unbiased, neutral, objective way? Why or why not? Achieving absolute objectivity is an ideal that is incredibly challenging, if not entirely impossible, to attain. Every writer or researcher has their own unique set of biases, which are shaped by their upbringing, education, experiences, culture, and personal beliefs. Biases can impact how information is chosen, data is interpreted, and findings are presented when writing about individuals. However, researchers can aim for objectivity by acknowledging their biases and consciously trying to overcome them. It is essential to employ transparent research methodologies, undergo peer review, and practice reflexivity to minimize bias. Reflexivity involves researchers critically examining their role and influence in the study. These measures collectively contribute to a more objective and unbiased research process. In addition, employing triangulation, which involves using various methods or data sources, can contribute to offering a more comprehensive and impartial perspective. In essence, although achieving absolute neutrality may be challenging, researchers need to make an effort to treat their subjects with fairness, respect, and objectivity.

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