The Price of Progress By John Bodley (1998) REFLECTION QUESTIONS on Indigenous Peoples Day

Full Answer Section

        Evidence: Historical examples of colonialism and imperialism, such as the British Empire and the Spanish Conquest of the Americas, provide ample evidence of governments using their power to extract resources and control populations.

Sacrifice of Traditional Culture

The sacrifice of traditional culture often involves the loss of cultural practices, languages, and values. This can have significant negative consequences for tribal communities, including erosion of identity, loss of community cohesion, and increased vulnerability to exploitation.

Gain: The "gain" associated with this sacrifice is often for the benefit of the colonizing power or the dominant society. This can include economic benefits, increased political control, or the spread of a particular ideology or religion.

American Benefit as Paramount

Bodley likely argues that American interests are prioritized over the well-being of tribal societies due to the historical and political context of colonialism and imperialism. The United States, as a dominant global power, has often pursued policies that benefit its own citizens and corporations, even at the expense of indigenous peoples.

Abuse or Advantage of Tribal People

From the perspective of tribal peoples: The actions of governments often result in abuse rather than advantage. This can include:

• Forced displacement: Removal of tribal people from their traditional lands.
• Denial of rights: Violation of basic human rights, such as freedom of expression and religion.
• Economic exploitation: Exploitation of tribal resources for the benefit of the colonizing power.

Bodley's perspective would likely align with this view, arguing that tribal peoples have been disadvantaged by government policies and interventions.

Standard of Living

Bodley's definition of "standard of living" is likely tied to material wealth and access to modern conveniences. However, it's important to note that this definition may not accurately reflect the values and priorities of tribal communities.

• Determined by whom? The standard of living is often determined by those in positions of power and influence, who may prioritize their own interests over the well-being of tribal peoples.
• Higher for rulers, not ruled: The standard of living is typically higher for rulers and the dominant society than for marginalized groups like tribal peoples. This is due to unequal distribution of resources and power.

Progress and Physical Needs

Progress, as defined by Western societies, often leads to an increase in physical needs. This can include increased consumption of goods and services, reliance on technology, and a sedentary lifestyle. These factors can contribute to health problems and environmental degradation.

Evidence: The rise of chronic diseases, such as obesity and heart disease, in industrialized nations is a clear example of how progress can lead to increased physical needs and health problems.

Developed Economies and Societal Issues

Despite their material wealth and advanced technology, developed economies often face significant societal issues, such as:

• Inequality: The gap between the rich and poor can be vast, leading to social unrest and instability.
• Mental health problems: Increased stress, anxiety, and depression are common in developed societies.
• Environmental degradation: The pursuit of economic growth can lead to environmental damage and resource depletion.

These issues suggest that a high standard of living, as defined by material wealth, does not necessarily equate to a high quality of life.

Tribal Groups and Larger Societies

As tribal groups became larger societies, they often experienced significant changes in their social structures, economic systems, and cultural practices. This transition could lead to both positive and negative consequences.

Positive consequences:

• Increased specialization: Larger societies could develop specialized roles and skills, leading to greater efficiency and productivity.
• Improved infrastructure: Larger societies could invest in infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and irrigation systems, to improve quality of life.
• Greater access to resources: Larger societies might have greater access to resources and opportunities.

Negative consequences:

• Loss of cultural identity: As tribal groups become integrated into larger societies, they may lose their cultural identity and traditions.
• Social inequality: The transition to larger societies can lead to social inequality and stratification.
• Environmental degradation: The pursuit of economic growth can lead to environmental damage and resource depletion.

Imported Food and Tribal Societies

Imported food can have a significant impact on tribal societies. It can introduce new foods and dietary habits, which can have both positive and negative consequences. For example, imported foods may provide essential nutrients that are lacking in the local diet, but they can also lead to dependence on external sources of food and contribute to cultural homogenization.

The relationship between economic development and mental health is complex. While economic development can provide opportunities for improved living standards, it can also lead to increased stress, anxiety, and social isolation. Studies have shown that rapid economic development and urbanization can be associated with higher rates of mental health problems.

 

Sample Answer

     

The End Goal of Government According to Bodley

Anthropologists often argue that the end goal of government, particularly in colonial contexts, is to extract resources and maintain control over a population. This can be achieved through various means, such as:

• Economic exploitation: Extracting resources from tribal lands for the benefit of the colonizing power.
• Political control: Imposing a foreign political system and suppressing dissent.
• Cultural assimilation: Forcing tribal people to abandon their traditional ways of life and adopt the dominant culture.