Anthropologist versus. Missionary?: A Re-Examination of
Cross-Disciplinary Dialogue and its Relevance to Anthropology

Undergraduate Thesis: USM Honors College

Building off of studies in anthropological theory, this thesis examines some of the historical similarities and differences in the roles played and attitudes held by anthropologists and missionaries in the foreign field.  It suggests that some of the supposed boundaries that have risen between the two groups  have been somewhat blurred as ideas (relativism, social action, etc.) have changed or grown in each field.  Through brief comparative histories and overviews of current changes in the work of both groups, I question the assumption that neither field can inform aspects of the other and that there is an automatic and necessary rivalry between the two as portrayed in the literature.  I suggest instead that a cross-disciplinary dialogue between the two can in fact be relevant for each.

I) Introduction

II) An Historical Overview
a. The late 1800's and the turn of the century
b. Developments in the early twentieth century
c. Development from the mid-twentieth century
d. The outcome: Divergent views

III) At the Crossroads: Could the criticisms be correct?

IV) Changes in the Relationship
a. Changes in anthropology
b. Changes in missions
c. Changes in other areas

V) Conclusion