Topic: Unit 1: Discussion 1Discussion Topic
One of this unit's readings, Horace Miner's "Body Ritual among the Nacirema," may have struck you as odd for the context of EN105, primarily because it is from an anthropology journal.
But once we consider the aims of critical thinking, we see that the work of an anthropologist is in many ways an instantiation of critical thinking. An anthropologist investigates cultures and communities, using his/her "outsider" perspective to analyze the meanings, values, ideologies, etc. behind common practices. And often, anthropologists, even when they are studying environments disparate from our own, help us come to conclusions about our own culture.
Let's work together to understand Miner's claims and overall purpose for writing. What are the Nacirema's body rituals and what is your opinion of them? To what extent can you identify with the culture's emphasis on rituals (and the fears those rituals betray)? Who are the Nacirema? How do you think the Nacirema from over 50 years ago [when the article was written] are the same as the Nacirema of today? Different?
Consider the above question, and craft a response (of at least 150 words) that tells us what you think Miner is trying to teach readers through his analysis. Make sure to support your answer with examples and analysis from the text. Were you persuaded by his thesis? Why?