The dawn of division: For an anthropological theory of consciousness through contemplative ethnography

Anthropology must make consciousness a central focus to fully understand human experience. The field has evolved from positivist roots through phenomenological and ontological turns, yet still struggles with dualistic thinking, especially the separation of self and other. The author's ethnographic work on contemplative practices such as Buddhist meditation and mindfulness shows how this bias persists even in studies of meditation. Drawing on Buddhist philosophy, the article proposes 'mindful ethnography' as a way to overcome dualism. Consciousness is presented as a fundamental concern that can reshape anthropological inquiry and offer a more nuanced understanding of humanity.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Abstract The article delves into the need for an anthropological exploration of consciousness in the modern context. While anthropology's core focus has always been the study of the human subject, this study argues that consciousness has emerged as a fundamental aspect that underpins all human phenomena. The historical trajectory of anthropology, from its positivist leanings to contemporary shifts like the phenomenological and ontological turns, is examined to highlight the evolving perspective on subjectivity and alterity. The author's ethnographic studies, particularly within the realm of contemplative practices like traditional Buddhist meditation and mindfulness, reveal a crucial connection between consciousness and anthropological inquiry, challenging the inherent bias and dualistic thinking within anthropology, particularly concerning the dichotomy of self and other, evident even in studies of meditation. The proposal of “mindful ethnography” is introduced as a means to transcend this dualism, drawing inspiration from Buddhist philosophy. The study presents consciousness as a central concern for anthropology, calling for a reevaluation of traditional frameworks and the adoption of a more mindful and non‐dualistic approach to anthropological research. Through a thorough investigation of consciousness, the article seeks to provide a nuanced understanding of human experience and reshape the trajectory of anthropological inquiry in a modern context.