"I had a hard time convincing students that they were going to North Africa to understand the North Africans, not to understand themselves"

This quote by Clifford Geertz speaks to the value of comprehending the culture and individuals of a location before trying to comprehend oneself. Geertz is suggesting that when trainees travel to North Africa, they must concentrate on understanding the North Africans and their culture, instead of trying to comprehend themselves. He is highlighting the significance of discovering the people and culture of a place prior to trying to understand oneself. This quote speaks to the significance of being open to learning about different cultures and individuals, and how this can assist us to much better comprehend ourselves. Geertz is recommending that by understanding the culture and individuals of a place, we can gain a better understanding of ourselves.