Franz Boas' Ethnography

Franz Boas, often called the "father of American anthropology," revolutionized ethnography by emphasizing the importance of fieldwork and cultural relativism. He believed that each culture should be understood on its own terms, rather than judged by the standards of another. Boas advocated for immersive research, where anthropologists live with the communities they study to gain deeper insights. His work challenged stereotypes and promoted the idea that cultures are dynamic and shaped by historical and environmental contexts. This approach laid the foundation for modern anthropology, fostering respect for cultural diversity and the complexity of human societies.