the questions. Each question has got 4 % (marks). Handwriting and neatness of the paper will be given 2%. The total value of this assignment is 30%. Copying from friends will nullify the total value of this assignment.
As a field of study anthropology has got its own unique characteristics. What are those unique characteristics?
What is culture? Do culture is something fixed or changing? If you say fixed or changing state your reason.
What do you understand by ethnicity, ethnic group and ethnic identity?
By compare and contrast techniques the three grand theories of ethnicity. From these three theories which seem best explain Oromo reality. Why?
What are the differences & similarities between Indigenous Knowledge and Global Science?
Discuss the different institutions of the Oromo Gada system?
Compare and contrast the Gada democracy in the eye of Western democracy.
1. As a field of study, anthropology has several unique characteristics. Firstly, it is holistic, meaning that it studies all aspects of human life – including biological, cultural, social, and linguistic dimensions – in a comprehensive manner. Secondly, anthropology is both comparative and cross-cultural, which means that it examines different societies and cultures around the world to understand the range of human variation. Additionally, anthropology emphasizes participant observation and ethnography, which involve immersive fieldwork and long-term engagement with the communities being studied. Lastly, anthropology values cultural relativism, which means understanding and interpreting other cultures in their own terms, without imposing one's own cultural biases.
2. Culture can be defined as the shared beliefs, values, practices, and behaviors that characterize a particular group or society. Culture is not fixed but rather constantly changing and evolving. It is influenced by various factors, such as technological advancements, globalization, social changes, and interactions between different cultures. Culture evolves through time as new ideas, practices, and beliefs emerge, while older ones may become less relevant or fade away. This dynamic nature of culture is evident in the adaptations and transformations that occur within societies over generations.
3. Ethnicity refers to a social group's shared cultural traditions, language, ancestry, and history. An ethnic group is a community of individuals who share a common cultural identity, typically based on these characteristics. Ethnic identity refers to an individual's personal identification with a particular ethnic group. It involves a sense of belonging, pride, and connection to the cultural heritage and traditions of that group.
4. The three grand theories of ethnicity are primordialism, instrumentalism, and constructivism. Primordialism suggests that ethnicity is rooted in fixed and inherent traits, such as biological or ancestral ties, hence emphasizing the natural and enduring nature of ethnic identity. Instrumentalism argues that ethnicity is a strategic and politically motivated construction, used by individuals or groups to achieve certain goals or advantages. Constructivism views ethnicity as a social construct, shaped by historical, political, economic, and cultural factors, and subject to change and negotiation.
In the context of Oromo reality, constructivism seems to best explain the ethnic dynamics. Oromo identity has been shaped by historical and political factors, such as colonization, marginalization, and cultural revival movements. It is a fluid and evolving concept, influenced by socio-economic changes and interactions with other ethnic groups in Ethiopia.
5. Indigenous Knowledge refers to the knowledge, practices, and beliefs that are developed within a specific indigenous community or culture. It encompasses traditional ecological knowledge, healing practices, agricultural techniques, and spiritual beliefs that have been passed down through generations. Global Science, on the other hand, refers to the scientific knowledge and methodologies that are developed and shared globally through universities, research institutions, and academic publications.
Differences between Indigenous Knowledge and Global Science include their origins and sources. Indigenous Knowledge is rooted in local communities and is often developed through observation and experience, while Global Science is based on systematic research, experimentation, and peer-reviewed studies. Additionally, Indigenous Knowledge is often embedded in cultural and spiritual beliefs, while Global Science is generally focused on objective and evidence-based approaches.
However, there are also similarities between Indigenous Knowledge and Global Science. Both systems strive to understand and explain the natural and social world through observation, analysis, and knowledge accumulation. Furthermore, both can contribute valuable insights and perspectives to address complex issues and challenges.
6. The Oromo Gada system is a traditional governance system of the Oromo people in Ethiopia. It is characterized by a rotational leadership structure, with different age grades assuming leadership responsibilities for a fixed term. The Gada system includes various institutions such as the Gada council, Gumi o (assembly of warriors), Qallu (spiritual leaders), and traditional judicial system.
7. When comparing the Gada democracy to Western democracy, several differences and similarities can be observed.
Differences:
- The Gada system is based on a rotational leadership structure, where each age grade assumes leadership responsibilities, while Western democracy typically involves elections and fixed terms.
- Gada democracy places a strong emphasis on consensus and collective decision-making, while Western democracy often prioritizes majority rule.
- The Gada system incorporates traditional rituals, ceremonies, and spiritual beliefs, which are not prominent in Western democracy.
- Gada democracy has a strong focus on social cohesion, community unity, and the welfare of the collective, while Western democracy tends to prioritize individual rights and freedoms.
Similarities:
- Both systems aim to promote governance, leadership, and decision-making processes for the betterment of society.
- Transparency, accountability, and participation are valued in both systems, although the specific mechanisms may differ.
- Both systems recognize the importance of justice, fairness, and conflict resolution, although the methods and institutions involved may vary.
Answer 1:
The unique characteristics of anthropology as a field of study include:
1. Holistic Approach: Anthropology takes a holistic approach to studying human societies and cultures, considering various aspects such as social, cultural, biological, and historical factors.
2. Comparative Method: Anthropology often focuses on comparing different societies and cultures to identify similarities, differences, and patterns across various human groups.
3. Ethnographic Research: Ethnographic research is a core method in anthropology, which involves immersing oneself in a community to observe and document their culture and social practices.
4. Cultural Relativism: Anthropology emphasizes cultural relativism, the understanding that each culture has its own internal logic and should be studied on its own terms, without imposing outside judgments.
5. Longitudinal Perspective: Anthropology often takes a long-term view, studying societies and cultures over extended periods to understand historical developments and changes.
Answer 2:
Culture refers to the beliefs, behaviors, values, and customs that are shared and transmitted by members of a society. Culture is not fixed but constantly evolving and changing. This is because cultures are shaped by various factors such as technological advancements, migration, globalization, and contact with other cultures. Cultural change can happen gradually or rapidly, and it can be influenced by both internal and external forces.
Answer 3:
Ethnicity refers to a shared sense of identity based on common ancestry, language, religion, customs, and traditions. An ethnic group is a community of people who share these characteristics and identify with each other. Ethnic identity is the subjective sense of belonging and connection to a particular ethnic group.
Answer 4:
There are three grand theories of ethnicity:
1. Primordialism: This theory argues that ethnicity is an inherent and natural characteristic of individuals and groups. It suggests that ethnic identities are based on deep-rooted, primordial ties such as kinship, language, and shared history.
2. Instrumentalism: Instrumentalism views ethnicity as a strategic construct that is used by individuals or groups to achieve certain goals, such as political power or economic advantages. It emphasizes the role of self-interest and manipulation in the creation and maintenance of ethnic identities.
3. Constructivism: Constructivism emphasizes the role of social and cultural processes in the formation of ethnic identities. It suggests that ethnicity is a social construct that is shaped by factors such as socialization, education, and media.
The best theory to explain Oromo reality would depend on various factors and perspectives. However, in the context of Oromo identity and struggle for recognition and autonomy in Ethiopia, the constructivist theory may provide a more nuanced explanation. This is because it takes into account the social and cultural processes involved in the construction of ethnic identities.
Answer 5:
Indigenous Knowledge and Global Science have both differences and similarities. Some of these are:
Differences:
1. Source: Indigenous Knowledge is derived from the experiences, observations, and practices of indigenous communities, passed down through generations. Global Science, on the other hand, is based on systematic empirical research and follows standardized methodologies.
2. Validation: Indigenous Knowledge is often validated through practical applications and community consensus, while Global Science undergoes rigorous peer review and validation through experiments, replication, and statistical analysis.
3. Scope: Indigenous Knowledge is often localized and specific to a particular culture or community, while Global Science aims to generate universal knowledge and understanding that can be applied across different contexts.
Similarities:
1. Knowledge Acquisition: Both Indigenous Knowledge and Global Science involve the systematic acquisition and transmission of knowledge through observation, experimentation, and analysis.
2. Construction of Meaning: Both Indigenous Knowledge and Global Science aim to construct meaning and understanding of the natural and social world, albeit using different approaches and methodologies.
3. Complementarity: Indigenous Knowledge and Global Science can mutually benefit each other by combining traditional wisdom and modern scientific methods, creating a more comprehensive understanding of complex issues.
Answer 6:
The Oromo Gada system consists of different institutions that play distinct roles within the socio-political structure. These institutions include:
1. Gada Council: The Gada Council is the highest decision-making body in the Gada system. It is composed of representatives from different age sets and is responsible for making laws, resolving disputes, and managing the affairs of the community.
2. Gada Assemblies: Gada Assemblies are public gatherings where important decisions are made, and community issues are discussed. They provide a platform for participation and consensus among community members.
3. Gada Grades: The Gada Grades are a hierarchical system within the Gada system, representing different age sets. Each grade has specific roles, responsibilities, and privileges within the community.
4. Gada Rituals: Gada rituals and ceremonies are an integral part of the system, serving to initiate young men into adulthood and the responsibilities of their age set. These rituals also reinforce social cohesion and unity among the community.
5. Gada Leadership: Leadership roles within the Gada system rotate among different age sets, ensuring a balanced distribution of power and preventing the accumulation of authority.
Answer 7:
The Gada democracy and Western democracy have some similarities and differences:
Similarities:
1. Representation: Both systems involve the representation of citizens in decision-making processes. While the Gada system represents different age sets, Western democracy represents citizens through voting and elected representatives.
2. Decision-Making: Both systems have mechanisms for making collective decisions, whether through the Gada Council or parliamentary processes.
Differences:
1. Leadership Rotation: In the Gada system, leadership roles rotate among different age sets, ensuring a regular turnover of power. Western democracy typically allows individuals to hold office for fixed terms or until they are voted out.
2. Selection Process: Gada leaders are selected based on age and seniority within the system, while Western democracy often involves competitive elections in which candidates campaign for votes.
3. Scale and Scope: Gada democracy is primarily practiced at the community or regional level within the Oromo culture, while Western democracy operates at national or international levels.
4. Legal Framework: Western democracy is often supported by a legal framework, including constitutions, laws, and regulations. The Gada democracy relies more on oral traditions, customs, and consensus-based decision-making.
Overall, these systems reflect different cultural and historical contexts, with individual strengths and limitations in promoting inclusive decision-making and governance.