Meaning: The quote by Clifford Geertz, a prominent American anthropologist, raises an important point about the role of rhetoric in the field of anthropology. In this statement, Geertz highlights the need for anthropologists to consider the nature of rhetoric and its significance in shaping anthropological discourse. He emphasizes that unlike some other disciplines, anthropology does not have a well-established body of knowledge and thought to rely on when it comes to rhetoric. This quote prompts us to explore the implications of rhetoric in anthropological research, and to consider the ways in which it influences the construction and communication of anthropological knowledge.

Rhetoric, in the context of anthropology, refers to the use of language and symbolic forms to convey meaning, persuade, and influence. It encompasses the ways in which anthropologists communicate their findings, construct arguments, and engage with diverse audiences. Geertz's call for greater consideration of rhetoric in anthropology suggests that he recognized the powerful role that language and communication play in shaping anthropological knowledge and discourse.

Anthropology as a discipline is inherently concerned with understanding human societies and cultures. Anthropologists engage in fieldwork, participant observation, and ethnographic research to gain insights into the beliefs, practices, and social structures of diverse communities. The knowledge produced through these research methods is then communicated through various forms of writing, presentations, and other modes of dissemination. In this process, the use of rhetoric becomes crucial in shaping how anthropological insights are framed, interpreted, and understood by both academic and non-academic audiences.

Geertz's assertion that there isn't a well-established body of knowledge and thought to fall back on in relation to rhetoric in anthropology points to the unique challenges that anthropologists face in grappling with the complexities of communication and representation. Unlike disciplines such as literature or philosophy, which have rich traditions of rhetorical analysis and theory, anthropology has historically been more focused on empirical research and ethnographic description. However, the increasing recognition of the importance of reflexivity and the situated nature of knowledge in anthropology has led to greater attention to the role of rhetoric in shaping anthropological narratives.

One of the key implications of Geertz's statement is the need for anthropologists to critically examine the ways in which their own perspectives, biases, and cultural positioning influence the language and rhetoric they employ in their work. This involves reflecting on the power dynamics inherent in anthropological research and acknowledging the potential for misrepresentation or exoticization of the communities being studied. By considering the nature of rhetoric in anthropology, anthropologists can strive to communicate their findings in ways that are respectful, ethical, and sensitive to the voices and perspectives of the people they study.

Furthermore, Geertz's emphasis on the need to think more about the nature of rhetoric in anthropology underscores the dynamic and evolving nature of anthropological knowledge production. As the discipline continues to engage with issues of representation, power, and social justice, it becomes increasingly important for anthropologists to critically evaluate the rhetorical strategies they employ and the implications of their communicative practices. This involves interrogating the language used in research publications, public engagement, and advocacy efforts, and considering how rhetoric can either challenge or perpetuate existing power dynamics and inequalities.

In conclusion, Clifford Geertz's quote serves as a thought-provoking reminder of the significance of rhetoric in anthropology and the need for anthropologists to critically engage with the ways in which they communicate their research findings. By considering the nature of rhetoric in anthropology, anthropologists can contribute to more nuanced, ethical, and reflexive approaches to knowledge production and dissemination within the discipline. Geertz's call for greater attention to rhetoric in anthropology encourages scholars to explore the complexities of representation, language, and power, and to consider the implications of their communicative practices in shaping anthropological knowledge and understanding.