Abstract
This paper takes the approach, used by Clifford Geertz in "Islam Observed", of understanding culture through metaphor. The paper points out that Geertz used man as a metaphor for society and the contradictions within man as a metaphor for the greater contradictions within society. It then goes on to analyze Joseph Conrad's book, "Heart of Darkness", by analyzing the characters in the novel as though they were a metaphor for the different aspects of European society of that period.

From the Paper
"Kurtz figure hangs over the entire novel like an extremely intriguing enigma. Everything we hear about him initially is a positive he is a man of the utmost learning and the greatest kindness and ability who seems to have gained everyone's respect. But something about him has gone wrong and something has changed him."

Tags:analytical, anthropoligical, islamic, culture, literary, analysis, european, dark, continent

Abstract
The paper explains how, in his work "Pre-Capitalist Economic Foundation", anthropologist Clifford Geertz theorizes that certain conditions must be present in order for capitalism to emerge in pre-capitalist societies. The paper outlines Geertz's proposal that the methodology of thick description be employed to reach beyond the strictly observable, and thus discover layers of cultural significance and meaning behind actions and behaviors.

From the Paper
"Geertz hypothesizes that the existence of capitalism necessarily entails a historical process, which consists of certain elements that must be present in order to capitalism to emerge and progress. Geertz describes this process as "...the evolutionary history of both capital and wage labor", indicating that these crucial prerequisite factors involve social change as evolution. Geertz assumes that his prerequisites take place, in one form or another, throughout all societies that are immersed in a capitalist economic system. According to Geertz, "culture is public because meaning is". To illustrate this principle, he gives the example of a piece of music written for a violin. The music does not consist only of notes written on a piece of paper, but rather is constructed of many things, such as the knowledge necessary to read the music, the training that is necessary before someone can play the violin, the creation of the violin itself, a common recognition of what constitutes music - the list is almost endless, and portrays the interconnected nature of the structure behind culture."

Tags:anthropology, historical, materialism, ethnography, mega-concepts, culture

Abstract
The paper explains anthropologist Clifford Geertz's belief in "Notes on the Balinese Cockfighting" that all societies contain cultural systems that contain heavily symbolic elements. The paper discusses Geertz's example of Balinese cockfighting where the social order is reflected in the wagering and the spatial organization of the game. The paper compares this to F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby" and goes on to show how money, social invitations and material goods all signify deeper meanings than are apparent on their surface.

From the Paper
"According to the anthropologist Clifford Geertz, all societies contain cultural systems that can be read as texts. For example, the rituals surrounding cockfighting in Balinese culture, Geertz argues can be interpreted and re-interpreted much like we interpret "Macbeth" in an English class. Cultural systems contain heavily symbolic elements that can reveal aspects of the culture. Such systems are dynamic and work to affect and change the culture. In Balinese cockfighting, the social order is both reflected in the wagering and the spatial organization of the game in a way that is symbolic, and transcends the ability to make money from betting. The process of playing the game affects the culture and expresses the culture."

Tags:social, order, symbolism, Daisy, Tom

Abstract
This paper shows how, in his book, Geertz offers a general context for the comparative analysis of religion and applies it to the study of the development of Islam in two very different countries: Indonesia and Morocco. The paper looks at Geertz's sentiments regarding religion, ideology and culture, and how he addresses these considerations in his book.

From the Paper
"In comparing religious practices in two communities, Geertz is trying to "determine just how and in what way particular ideas, acts, and institutions sustain, fail to sustain, or even inhibit religious faiths." (2). Geertz wonders how the common man's "religious sensibility reacts when the machinery of faith begins to wear out" What do they do when tradition falters?" (3) Moreover, the author wonders particularly what cultural and circumstantial processes influence those reactions."

Tags:religion, faith, culture

Abstract
This paper discusses that, when most people observe aspects of an issue that they are studying, it is often difficult not to come up with certain generalizations regarding aspects of a society. The author believes that, through their observations and studies, Geertz and Moore are able to find some in-depth looks at the societies they study; but they come up with some general conclusions in a scientific way, without enough evidence to support them.

From the Paper
"Through applying certain anthropological methods, Clifford Geertz makes some strong points in his study of the Balinese cockfights. In order for him to study appropriately the Balinese cockfights, it was essential for him to become more of a part of the Balinese culture. Only by this can an anthropologist obtain a better understanding and a more in-depth perspective of a certain aspect of a society. Most people that would observe the cockfights would view it as a spectator sport, without much meaning behind the activity. After all, the Balinese government ruled the cockfights illegal and was ashamed that the fights were part of the Balinese culture."

Tags:observation, understanding, in-depth, holistic, scientific

Abstract
This paper attempts to provide a brief analysis of September 11, 2002 in the light of thick description. It uses a semiotic approach to cultural analysis to facilitate a better understanding of cultural differences and their impact on the world today.

From the Paper
"Since, the "cultural theory is not a master of itself, it is not heavily predictive or a mere post facto" (Geertz, p. 26) therefore the thick description vehemently opposes considering the theoretical context of the cultural similarities and dissimilarities. Thus as an ethnographer, I have applied thick description to this new interpretive political event of September 11, 2002 thereby basically focusing on the symbolic signs either dormant or apparent in the process of the review and research as well as interpretation. "The aim is to draw large conclusions from small but very densely textured texts; to support broad assertions about the role of culture in the construction of collective life" (Geertz, p. 28)."

Tags:social, anthropologist, cultural, comprehension, anti-American, protests, muslims

Abstract
This paper summarizes the theories of these thinkers on the role of the individual and his/her relationship to the community. In conclusion, the author states that the thinking of Victor Turner is the most accurate and convincing.

From the Paper
"Two thinkers -- Max Weber and Emile Durkheim -- were late modernist thinkers who developed theories about the relation of the individual to society. Their theories were appropriate to the industrial societies in which they lived. With the end of World War Two and the rise of the post-modern period, however, different ways of conceiving of the individual and society arose that sought to break with modernist thinking, including the thought of Clifford Geertz and Victor Turner."

Tags:anthropology, emile, max, sociology, society, authority, changing, order, religious

Abstract
Discusses the emphasis on symbolism and the importance of the signs and symbols of a culture. Examines the meaning of traditions and rituals, Bronislaw Malinowski's holistic approach, and his theory of Functionalism.

From the Paper
"Clifford Geertz studied the Javanese, Balinese, and Moroccan cultures (Coe, 2002). His work focused on a cultures words, images, institutions, and behaviors, and he believes these to be symbolic forms. The most important part of his work is his emphasis..."

Abstract
Analysis of art as an intellectual and emtoional aeathetic response. Discusses Clifford Geertz's theory of art forms and their cultural context. The meaning perceived in aesthetic form and objects. Applies Geertz's framework to Abstract Expressionism as it developed in the post-World War II period. Limitations of Geertz's theory. Critical views of Clement Greenberg and Lucie-Smith.

From the Paper
"Clifford Geertz (1983) has proposed a theory of art as a cultural system in which the response to aesthetics is both intellectual and emotional, or rooted in one s feelings. These feelings in turn are seen as rooted in culture, itself manifested in the varied expressions of religion, morality, science, commerce, technology, politics, amusements, law, and even in the societal organization of everyday practical existence. Geertz (1983, p. 96) argues that talk about art tends to move beyond the technical and even the spiritualization of the technical and is directed to placing it within the context of these other expressions of human purpose and the pattern of experience they collectively explain.

Art, therefore, is very much a product, expression, symbol, and commentary upon the artist and the society in which the ..."

Abstract
Examines Clifford Geertz's theory of symbolism and Bronislaw Malinowski's theory of functionalism. Discusses the different backgrounds and approaches of both anthropologists. Considers Malinowski's field work in New Guinea, 1915-1918.

From the Paper
"Clifford Geertz and Bronislaw Malinowski represent two very different views on the role of the anthropologist. The difference lies in their definition of culture, Geertz favoring symbolism and Malinowski favoring functionalism. This leads to different ..."