格尔兹的解释人类学

Geertz's Interpretative Anthropology

本文较为系统评述了当代著名解释人类学大师克利福德·格尔兹的思想影响、学术历程及主导理论，认为：格尔兹作为象征人类学＂的核心人物，在２０世纪６０年代以来的人类学转变中扮演了极为重要的角色；格尔兹的学术历程可以分作三个阶段，即由初步显示对宗教生活和符号体验的兴趣，到对当时社会经济问题的兴趣，再到对符号和文化的重新关注；格尔兹在描述、地方性知识、文化理解等领域的研究方面都体现了解释人类学＂的基本意味，即肯定人类文化的基本特点是符号的和解释性的，并认为作为文化研究的人类学也是解释性的，由此他也被称为反思人类学＂的最早实践者；在马克思主义文化理论看来，格尔兹的文化观有可能忽略文化的多元性和意识形态性，并可能导致对非西方文化的误读，但不可否认的是。

Abstract This article analyzes in details the academic progress and major theories of Clifford Geertz , the prominent contemporary master of interpretative anthropology. The article holds that as a leading figure in “Symbolic anthropology', Geertz has played an extremely important role in the transition of anthropology since the 1960s. His academic progress can be seen in three stages, namely, the first signs of interest in religious life and experience of symbols; interest in current social economic problems then; and resumed concerns with symbols and culture. His research work in areas of description, local knowledge and understanding of culture are all marked by basis of 'interpretation anthropology'. According to Geertz the basic properties of human culture are symbolic and interpretative, and, likewise, as a science of research in culture, the nature of anthropology is also interpretative. If viewed in the light of Marxist theories Geertz's concept of culture tends to ignore the features of multi variance and ideology in culture. Besides, it may lead to misreading of non Western cultures. However, his contribution in recognition of the values of borderline world is undeniable.