Eric Wolf
A prominent historical anthropologist known for his work on power, political economy, and the historical connections between different societies.
Quotes by Eric Wolf
Ideologies are not just false consciousness; they are also ways of making sense of the world.
The 'West' is not a monolithic entity, but a complex and contested terrain.
The study of peasants is central to understanding the modern world.
The 'primitive' is a mirror in which the 'civilized' sees itself.
Power is not just about domination; it is also about resistance.
The 'traditional' is not opposed to the 'modern'; it is intertwined with it.
Anthropology must be historically informed.
The 'global economy' is not a natural phenomenon, but a historical construct.
Ideologies are not just about ideas; they are about practices.
The 'subaltern' has a voice, even if it is often unheard.
The study of kinship is central to understanding social organization.
The 'other' is not inherently different; it is made different through power relations.
Power is not just exercised by states; it is also exercised in everyday life.
The 'development' project is not a neutral process, but a political one.
Anthropology must be politically engaged.
The 'local' is not isolated from the 'global'; it is shaped by it.
Ideologies are not just imposed from above; they are also produced from below.
The 'colonized' are not passive recipients of history; they are active agents.
The study of class is central to understanding social inequality.
The 'self' is not an autonomous entity; it is constituted in relation to others.