When I hear the word anthropology, I picture a lens through which we examine humans, the ways we live, the beliefs we hold, and how culture shapes us. It is not just about observing people; it is about understanding our interactions, and I am especially curious about moments of first contact between different groups. These encounters can be fascinating, full of curiosity, wonder, and sometimes misunderstanding, especially when bias or stereotypes influence perception.
During Monday’s launch activity, we analyzed images of unusual objects. At first glance, I made assumptions about what they were and how they were used. Then I learned their true context. This was a moment of revelation. I realized how easily our minds fill in gaps with assumptions and how observation paired with reflection can reveal hidden biases. Anthropology, I discovered, is not only about studying others; it is also about understanding ourselves through comparison, questioning, and awareness.
As I think about my journey as an anthropological thinker, my goal is to move beyond familiar concepts and explore new perspectives. I chose this learning intention because anthropology challenges me to step outside my comfort zone and question assumptions I might not even know I hold. I want to approach every culture, story, and person with an open, analytical mind and not just through the lens of my own experiences. This connects to what I practiced in my previous BCFP project, where I honed my ability to analyze evidence and form balanced opinions. Now I aim to apply that same skill to cultural understanding. By expanding my awareness and reflecting on my own biases, I hope to experience the world with greater empathy and depth.