Some Requirements for a Progressive 21st-Century Anthropology

A commentary on a special journal issue critiquing flexible labor notes that the articles stress the value of greater realism in the appraisal of anthropological subjects & suggest the need for greater theoretical specification of concepts like "flexible accumulation," as well as for improved methods for progressive anthropologists to articulate ways to promote positive social change. Topics span the wide range of new subjects engendered by a highly integrated world economy & point out the implications for relevant political projects; however, it is argued that it is difficult to assess the degree to which different aspects of capitalist accumulation processes are interrelated except in broad theoretical expressions. Researchers need to expose the links between local systems of labor & production, as well as between profit & capital flows. It is suggested that a gradual realignment of anthropological research activities with progressive social forces & movements would enhance the development of improved research designs. 4 References. J. Lindroth