Redfield

Beginning to read the portion required from Redfield's Peasant Society and Culture, I found it somewhat interesting that he chose to start off mostly with his own opinion. Reading on, however, I discovered that almost everything he contributed was based off his own observations and opinions. He discusses the experiences he's encountered in his own studies. He also gives off a strong sense of pride as he argues the role of the anthropologist/ethnologist not only in society, but among other area’s of science. Especially as he mentions how anthropologists essentially become experts on almost all social sciences such as economy, religion, family, etc., within their own area of study was they’ve done adequate research. Furthermore, Redfiled continues to apply his own aspect on the readings of other fellow anthropologists, and often elaborates on theories or observations they present. These readings were often his only “official” sources, and were only secondary at that. Because of what constitutes a primary source depending on the field of study, I wasn’t sure whether Redfield needed any primary resources, being an anthropologist himself. Peasant Society and Culture is heavily detailed, often jumping from different anthropological groups, and the aspects of Redfield’s own studies as an Anthropologist. This somewhat loose, and unorganized structure made it a little difficult to follow through, as it seemed almost like an informational guide or research paper, rather than a book meant for the general public, as a look inside anthropology.