Explaining Explanation: Tension in American Anthropology

Abstract

This article addresses a fundamental misunderstanding in cultural anthropology of a system of analysis borrowed and converted from linguistics. In setting the record straight on emics/ etics, several issues of importance to anthropological theory are touched upon, including the role of discourse with natives in the generation of cultural explanations. Particular reference is made to the several critiques of "cultural idealism" advanced by Marvin Harris. We establish the larger framework in which debate between Harris and others, including ourselves, can be seen to reflect tensions and polarizations in anthropology more generally.