ANTH 4751 Lecture 4: Douglas and Geertz
Document Summary
An interpretation of the pollution rules in another culture must be holistic; it is never just one isolated event that causes it. Douglas will demonstrate this holistic perspective through the dietary rules in the abominations of. Eagle, vulture, osprey, buzzard, kite, raven, ostrich, night hawk, sea gull, hawk. All interpretations fall into one of two groups: either rules are meaningless, arbitrary because their intent is disciplinary and not doctrinal, or they are allegories of virtues and vices. Stein - hellenic influence; both ethical and medical reasons. Driver - for unclean/health reasons or theological protest/sacredness. Virtues and vices - if god is the creator, why should he exclude some animals even from touch. Other approach: what is forbidden to the israelites is forbidden solely to protect them from foreign influence. Laws barriers to spread of heathen styles of ritual - but some practices were still kept. Blessing = source of all good things; withdrawal of blessing = source of all dangers.
