This document summarizes a research study that used autoethnography to examine observer-observed relations among Indigenous San/Bushmen people in Southern Africa. The study aimed to examine issues of dependency, inclusion/exclusion, and othering. It used autoethnography, narratives, participant observation, interviews, filming and photography to understand how meaning is constructed. Each researcher interpreted the same situations differently. The local experiences offered insight into addressing global issues of possession, poverty, and ontology.

1. WRITING IN THE SAN/D: AUTOETHNOGRAPHY AMONG INDIGENOUS SOUTHERN AFRICANS

2. San/d San People “Bushmen” Sand of the Kalahari Deset

5. Research Purpose/Questions To examine observer – observed relations (dependency, inclusion/exclusion, borders & othering) To examine methodological issues of narratives To examine the construction of meaning To question ethics Issues of possession, poverty, ontology

6. Theoretical Framework Visual Anthropology Applied Cultural Studies Experience of specific/local offers a prism to address general/global issues (pg. 1)

7. METHODOLOGY

8. Autoethnography Narratives illustrate shift from theory to experience From impersonal text to reflexive expression “ empathetically understood creatively engaged by subjects who appreciate the symbolic value of being included in someone’s life story” (21)

9. Data Collection Methods Participant observer Field notes Observation Interviews Filming photography

10. Data Analysis Methods Each interpreted the same setting & situations differently

11. Findings/Conclusions

12. Personal Reactions/Critique Heather Tourism Stereotypes Ch. 4 Jody