El antropólogo inocente : Book Review

"El antropólogo inocente" is a fascinating and humorous autobiography penned by Nigel Barley. The book follows Barley's experiences as an anthropologist in Cameroon, where he immerses himself in the local culture and tries to adjust to the unfamiliar customs and traditions of the tribe he is studying. With his witty and self-deprecating narrative, Barley sheds light on the challenges faced by researchers in anthropology, offering valuable insights into the clash between Western and indigenous civilizations.

One of the book's strengths is Barley's ability to seamlessly blend humor with informative anecdotes. His writing style is engaging and filled with amusing observations that captivate the reader from start to finish. As he navigates the complexities of the tribal community, Barley recounts numerous awkward and comical situations, effectively portraying the struggles faced by an outsider attempting to assimilate into a foreign culture.

Furthermore, the author's commentary on the anthropological process itself adds depth to the narrative. Barley illuminates the limitations and pitfalls of ethnographic fieldwork, emphasizing the inherent biases and subjectivity involved in studying cultures different from one's own. His honest reflections on the challenges of conducting research and his self-critical analysis of his methodologies contribute to the authenticity of the book, making it an invaluable resource for aspiring anthropologists.

Additionally, "El antropólogo inocente" offers a unique perspective on the clash between cultural systems. Barley explores the conflict between his Western mindset and the traditional beliefs and practices of the tribe he studies. Through his interactions with the local people, he gains not only a deeper understanding of their customs, but also questions his own preconceived notions and assumptions. This exploration of cultural relativism and the complexities of cross-cultural interactions adds a thought-provoking element to the book.

Overall, "El antropólogo inocente" is a captivating and enlightening read. Nigel Barley's candid and humorous account of his experiences provides invaluable insights into the field of anthropology and the challenges faced by field researchers. His reflections on cultural clashes and the limitations of ethnography make this book a must-read for anyone interested in anthropology or cross-cultural studies.

What are readers saying?

Nigel Barley's book "El antropólogo inocente" has garnered a range of reviews, showcasing both positive and mixed reactions. Published in 1983, this memoir chronicles the amusing and often bewildering experiences of the author as an anthropologist in Cameroon.

Numerous readers found "El antropólogo inocente" to be an entertaining and enjoyable read, praising Barley's witty writing style and his knack for capturing the absurdity of his encounters in the field. They referred to the book as a delightful fusion of anthropology and travelogue, appreciating the author's self-deprecating humor. These readers found the book to be an educational and highly entertaining narrative, recommending it to anyone fascinated by anthropology or African culture.

Although the majority of reviews were positive, some readers had mixed feelings regarding "El antropólogo inocente." A few felt that Barley's self-deprecating humor was excessive and detracted from the seriousness of the subject matter. Others believed that the book lacked depth and wished for a more detailed exploration of the local culture and customs of Cameroon. Despite these criticisms, these readers still acknowledged the book's entertaining and engrossing nature.

A minority of negative reviews also emerged for "El antropólogo inocente." Some readers found the book repetitive, with the jokes and anecdotes losing their charm over time. Others expressed disappointment, deeming Barley's perspective as a British anthropologist in Africa to be too colonialist, and arguing that his portrayal of the local people lacked cultural sensitivity. These readers cautioned potential readers to approach the book with caution.

In conclusion, Nigel Barley's "El antropólogo inocente" generally received positive reviews, with readers appreciating the author's humorous writing style and finding the book both entertaining and educational. While there were mixed opinions about the book's depth and cultural sensitivity, it is generally recommended for those interested in anthropology or personal memoirs infused with humor.

InnocentAnthropologist CulturalExploration EnlighteningRead