Meaning: The quote "I'm an inveterate fox and not a hedgehog, so I always think you should try everything" is attributed to Clifford Geertz, an influential American anthropologist known for his work in symbolic anthropology. The quote is often used to illustrate Geertz's approach to research, which emphasizes the importance of exploring multiple perspectives and interpretations rather than adhering to a single, rigid framework.

The distinction between being a "fox" and a "hedgehog" originates from an ancient Greek parable attributed to the poet Archilochus and popularized by the philosopher Isaiah Berlin. In the parable, the fox knows many things but the hedgehog knows one big thing. This metaphor has been applied to various fields, including philosophy, politics, and literature, to describe different approaches to understanding the world.

Geertz's self-identification as a "fox" reflects his belief in the value of intellectual diversity and open-mindedness. Rather than limiting himself to a single, all-encompassing theory or method, he advocates for a more flexible and exploratory approach to knowledge. This aligns with his broader anthropological perspective, which emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural phenomena within their specific contexts and avoiding simplistic generalizations.

In the context of anthropology, Geertz's "fox" mentality can be seen in his influential concept of "thick description." Geertz argued that in order to understand the meaning of cultural practices, one must engage in detailed, context-specific analysis that takes into account the multiple layers of significance embedded in social behavior. This approach stands in contrast to more reductionist or essentialist perspectives that seek to explain cultural phenomena through simple, universal principles.

Geertz's emphasis on trying everything can also be understood as a call for intellectual curiosity and humility. By advocating for a broad and open-minded approach to research, he encourages scholars to engage with diverse perspectives and methodologies, recognizing that no single approach can fully capture the complexity of human experience. This resonates with the broader ethos of anthropology as a discipline that values cultural relativism and the recognition of multiple truths.

Moreover, Geertz's quote can be interpreted as a rejection of dogmatism and intellectual narrowness. By identifying as a "fox," he distances himself from the rigidity associated with being a "hedgehog" and instead embraces a more expansive and inclusive mindset. This rejection of intellectual orthodoxy aligns with his broader critique of reductive or overly deterministic theories that fail to capture the richness and diversity of human cultures.

In summary, Clifford Geertz's quote "I'm an inveterate fox and not a hedgehog, so I always think you should try everything" encapsulates his commitment to intellectual pluralism, open-mindedness, and methodological flexibility. It reflects his belief in the value of exploring multiple perspectives and approaches in the pursuit of knowledge, particularly within the context of cultural anthropology. Geertz's legacy continues to inspire scholars to approach their research with curiosity, humility, and a willingness to embrace complexity.