The Gebusi Analysis

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After reading “The Gebusi: Lives Transformed in a Rainforest World” by Bruce Knauft, I noticed many changes that occurred from his first experience in 1982 with the second time he went to study in 1998. Although the time significantly changed, so did the world. Market economies were introduced, transnational influences were apparent, and there were national agendas. These changes affected traditional life and some were introduced to have a better life. The next major change that I noticed was that time used to be relevant to them, and now it is more significant. Their concept of time is important and punctuality increased. Because time is more significant, this is caused from outside influences such as church services, school classes, and other activities. Another change that occurred that goes along with time is the use of markets. Gebusi adapted to the outside influences and were more open to trade and to depend on other people for goods. Some of these goods include food, clothing, and entertainment. Materialism developed because of markets which in return created individualism and more competition between men, women, and children. Reciprocity and sharing declined because they wanted to be…show more content…
Some of these aspects include their natural environment, subsistence farming patterns, clan membership, and their dances they use for social activities. Overall, I believe that the Gebusi were successful in adapting their cultural beliefs and practices to a global world because they were open for outside influences. If they weren’t open to suggestions, then these changes would have never occurred. Another positive advantage of this change is that they were still able to save some of their old traditions. Remembrance of old beliefs is important because you have to know where you came from; your past is vital and should not be
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