Reaction Paper
Lundgren, Nancy
Watch and Pray: A Portrait of Fante Village Life in Transition
Cultural Anthropology
Respond to the following questions. There is no need to write in elaborate prose and I encourage
you to use an outline format responding to each question as a bullet.
1. In describing her research and life among the Fante, Nancy Lundgren discusses the
affects of globalization many times throughout the book. Give several examples of her
characterizations of globalization (cite which page number each example comes
from). Based on her characterizations of globalization, and based on discussions from
class and from our textbook, define globalization. How does she characterize the
effects of globalization on the Fante? (25 points).
a. Reaction: Based on what you know or are learning about globalization, do you
think she gives a fair representation of its affects on the Fante? Why or why
not? Give specific examples of processes or situations that she discusses that
helped you to reach your opinion. (25 points).
2. Nancy Lundgren is asked by the residents of Asebu Abaasa to become the Queen
Mother of their village. What does this mean? What are the responsibilities and
qualification for a Queen Mother? What ethical dilemma does the author grapple with
while making her decision? (25 points).
a. Reaction: Based on your understanding of the qualifications and responsibilities
for a Queen Mother, do you think Nancy Lundgren made a good decision?
Why or why not? Give specific criteria that compelled you to reach your
decision. (25 points).
Reactions should be typed, double spaced and no more than three pages. Include a bibliography
and use proper citation format when referencing this book or our text book. If you do not use
proper citation format I deduct points. The above points are based on well structured papers or
outlines that employ proper citations. I reserve the right to subtract points for poor citations or
other shortcomings.
This is an exercise in critically examining the actions of an anthropologist doing fieldwork. Enjoy
wrestling with your own ethical standards, and keep in mind that there are no right or no wrong
answers regarding your reactions.