"Anthropology never has had a distinct subject matter, and because it doesn't have a real method, there's a great deal of anxiety over what it is"
- Clifford Geertz
About this Quote
This quote by Clifford Geertz speaks to the lack of a distinct subject matter and method in the field of sociology. Geertz recommends that this lack of a clear subject matter and method has caused a good deal of anxiety amongst anthropologists. This anxiety is most likely due to the truth that without a clear topic and technique, it is challenging to specify what anthropology is and how it should be practiced. This stress and anxiety is additional intensified by the reality that anthropology is a fairly brand-new field of study, and as such, there is still much to be learned and comprehended about it. Geertz's quote highlights the need for anthropologists to come together and establish a clear subject matter and method in order to better understand and define the field of sociology.
"As your faith is strengthened you will find that there is no longer the need to have a sense of control, that things will flow as they will, and that you will flow with them, to your great delight and benefit"