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Unveiling the Treasures of the 1986 Lewis Henry Morgan Lectures: A Journey into the Hau Special Collections

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The Lewis Henry Morgan Lectures, a prestigious series held annually at the University of Rochester, have long served as a platform for renowned scholars to share their groundbreaking research and insights in the field of anthropology. In particular, the 1986 lectures, now housed within the Hau Special Collections of the Rochester University Library, hold immense significance for their contributions to ethnographic studies. This article embarks on a journey into these invaluable archives, exploring the lectures' enduring legacy and the wealth of knowledge they offer to scholars and enthusiasts alike.

The Meaning of Money in China and the United States: The 1986 Lewis Henry Morgan Lectures (Hau Special Collections in Ethnographic Theory 1)

The Meaning of Money in China and the United States: The 1986 Lewis Henry Morgan Lectures (Hau - Special Collections in Ethnographic Theory Book 1)

by Stuart A. Kallen

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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The Visionary Legacy of Lewis Henry Morgan

Lewis Henry Morgan, an American anthropologist and social theorist, left an indelible mark on the discipline of anthropology. His groundbreaking work on kinship systems and social organization revolutionized the understanding of human societies. Morgan's pioneering contributions provided a foundation for subsequent anthropological research, inspiring generations of scholars to delve deeper into the complexities of human cultures and behaviors.

The Lewis Henry Morgan Lectures, established in his honor, serve as a testament to his enduring influence. Each year, distinguished anthropologists are invited to present their latest research findings, continuing the tradition of intellectual exploration and innovation that Morgan himself exemplified.

The 1986 Lewis Henry Morgan Lectures: A Watershed Moment

The 1986 Lewis Henry Morgan Lectures marked a watershed moment in ethnographic research. The series featured a remarkable lineup of scholars, including:

* Clifford Geertz, a renowned cultural anthropologist known for his contributions to symbolic anthropology and the concept of thick description. * Marshall Sahlins, a prominent economic anthropologist who made significant advancements in the study of kinship, exchange, and political economy. * Eric Wolf, an acclaimed historical anthropologist who pioneered the concept of world systems theory. * Renato Rosaldo, a cultural and linguistic anthropologist whose work focused on the interplay between language, culture, and social life. * Sherry Ortner, a feminist anthropologist who explored issues of gender, power, and ritual in various cultural contexts.

These esteemed scholars presented groundbreaking research that challenged existing paradigms and expanded the horizons of ethnographic inquiry. Their lectures covered a wide range of topics, including:

* The nature of culture and its relationship to human behavior * The role of symbols and rituals in social life * Kinship systems and their implications for social organization * The impact of colonialism and globalization on indigenous cultures * The ethical dimensions of ethnographic research

The Hau Special Collections: A Treasure Trove for Scholars

The Hau Special Collections, housed within the University of Rochester's Rush Rhees Library, serve as the repository for the Lewis Henry Morgan Lectures. These archives encompass a vast array of materials, including:

* Audio recordings of the lectures: These recordings provide an invaluable opportunity to listen to the original presentations by the renowned scholars, capturing their insights and the vibrant atmosphere of the lectures. * Transcripts of the lectures: The transcripts offer a convenient and accessible way to delve into the content of the lectures, facilitating in-depth analysis and research. * Notes and correspondence: The Hau Special Collections also contain notes and correspondence related to the lectures, providing additional context and insights into the scholars' research processes and intellectual exchanges. * Biographical information: The archives include biographical information on the lecturers, shedding light on their backgrounds, research interests, and contributions to the field.

The Enduring Significance of the 1986 Lectures

The 1986 Lewis Henry Morgan Lectures continue to hold immense relevance and significance for contemporary ethnographic research. The lectures' contributions to the field are multifaceted:

* Expanding Ethnographic Methods: The lectures introduced new and innovative ethnographic methods, such as participant observation, in-depth interviewing, and archival research. These methods have become standard practices in ethnographic studies, enabling researchers to gain a deeper understanding of the cultures they study.

* Challenging Assumptions: The lecturers challenged prevailing assumptions and orthodoxies within anthropology, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and encouraging scholars to question established theories. Their insights have stimulated critical thinking and inspired new lines of inquiry.

* Promoting Cultural Understanding: The lectures emphasized the importance of cultural relativism, highlighting the need to understand cultural practices and beliefs within their own contexts. This perspective has fostered greater appreciation for cultural diversity and has contributed to a more nuanced understanding of human behavior.

* Encouraging Ethical Research: The lecturers addressed ethical considerations in ethnographic research, raising awareness about the potential impact of fieldwork on the communities being studied. Their insights have helped shape ethical guidelines and best practices for conducting respectful and responsible research.

* Inspiring Future Generations: The 1986 lectures have served as a source of inspiration for generations of anthropologists. The scholars' passion for their work and their commitment to advancing knowledge have motivated countless students to pursue careers in ethnographic research.

The 1986 Lewis Henry Morgan Lectures, housed within the Hau Special Collections of the University of Rochester, represent a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration for ethnographic researchers. The lectures' groundbreaking contributions to the field have expanded our understanding of culture, challenged assumptions, promoted cultural understanding, encouraged ethical research, and inspired future generations of scholars. By delving into these archives, we can gain invaluable insights into the cutting-edge research of the past, while also gaining inspiration for our own ethnographic endeavors. The Hau Special Collections serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Lewis Henry Morgan Lectures, ensuring that their contributions continue to shape the future of ethnographic studies.

The Meaning of Money in China and the United States: The 1986 Lewis Henry Morgan Lectures (Hau - Special Collections in Ethnographic Theory Book 1)

by Stuart A. Kallen

5 out of 5