Napolean Chagnon

Napoleon Chagnon accomplished ethno self analysis by not only analyzing the Yanomamö, but also himself in order to gain a better understanding of their lifestyles. Chagnon was “living among the Yanomamö to systematically collect certain kinds of information on genealogy, reproduction, marriage practices, kinship, settlement patterns, migrations, and politics” (Chagnon 1992). He used ethno self analysis during his cultural adjustment to notice the differences in his actions and the actions of the Yanomamö. At first, Chagnon was shocked at how the Yanomamö lacked sanitization as he remarked, “'Even the missionaries are filthy” (Chagnon 1992). But later on Chagnon realizes that because of the current condition of the region, it is impossible to stay clean. He states, “It is difficult to blow your nose gracefully when you are stark naked and the invention of hankerschiefs is millenia away” (Chagnon 1992). Chagnon constantly notices his own struggles, an important aspect of ethno self analysis. He considered it “appalling how complicated it can be to make oatmeal in the jungle" (Chagnon 1992). Like Chagnon, ethnographers can use self analysis to find the reasons behind the actions to construct a more elaborate and in-depth conclusion about their subjects.
At first, Chagnon was disappointed because he had expected to work his way “into their moral system of kinship and become a member of their society-to be 'accepted' by them” (Chagnon 1992). When Chagnon saw the Yanomamö, he felt helpless and pathetic, a reaction he changed as he finally adjusted to the Yanomamö community. Towards the end of his experience he states, “I was timid and mohode ("stupid") and a little afraid of them” (Chagnon 1992). This change in perspectives reveals that Chagnon used ethno self analysis by comparing his initial and final reactions towards the Yanomamö to create substantial findings. Ethnographers should risk a few attempts at ethno self analysis because it helps them recognize the differences and similarities between their actions and the actions of the unfamiliar people. Such realization can help discover the root and the actual reasons of why the unfamiliar people act the way they do. It is only then when ethnographers can begin to understand the culture with an experienced perspective.


Chagnon, Napoleon. Yanomamö. 1992. Edition 4. Harcourt Brace Jovanvich.:10-19.




Laayla Muhammad