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His 1973 article, "Thick Description: Toward an Interpretive Theory of Culture", synthesizes his approach. [6] Thick description emphasized a more analytical approach, whereas previously observation alone was the primary approach. To Geertz, analysis separated observation from interpretative methodologies.
The concept of thick description has become a cornerstone of ethnographic research, emphasizing the importance of context in understanding cultural practices. Geertz’s ideas also laid the groundwork for what would later be known as symbolic or interpretive anthropology, a school of thought that has had a lasting impact on the study of culture.
As part of the project, Geertz conducted fieldwork in Morocco on "bazaars, mosques, olive growing and oral poetry," [4]: 10 collecting ethnographic data that would be used for his famous essay on thick description. [11] Geertz contributed to social and cultural theory and remains influential in turning anthropology toward a concern with the ...
The purpose of symbolic and interpretive anthropology can be described through a term used often by Geertz that originated from Gilbert Ryle, "Thick Description."By this what is conveyed, is that since culture and behavior can only be studied as a unit, studying culture and its smaller sections of the structure, thick description is what details the interpretation of those belonging to a ...
– Discuss] Geertz's most seminal work, [not verified in body] it addresses the symbolism and social dynamics of cockfighting (sabungan) in Balinese culture. [1] [2] It is an important example of Geertz's use of "thick description" as an anthropological approach. [not verified in body]
Geertz's interpretive method involved what he called "thick description". The cultural symbols of rituals, political and economic action, and of kinship, are "read" by the anthropologist as if they are a document in a foreign language.
Geertz, Clifford, "Thick Description: Toward an Interpretive Theory of Culture." In: The Interpretation of Cultures: Selected Essays . (New York: Basic Books) 3-30.
Geertz held the view that mere explanations to describe religions and cultures are not sufficient: interpretations are needed too. He advocated what he called thick descriptions to interpret symbols by observing them in use, and for this work, he was known as a founder of symbolic anthropology.