The Primacy of the Ethical: Propositions for a Militant Anthropology by Nancy Scheper-Hughes argues that anthropology must be ethically grounded and politically engaged, moving beyond cultural relativism to address the moral and ethical dimensions of human experience. Scheper-Hughes critiques the traditional role of the anthropologist as a neutral observer, advocating instead for a more active, morally committed approach that engages directly with issues of ethics and power. She reflects on her experiences in South Africa, Brazil, and Cuba, where she witnessed the devastating effects of political violence, poverty, and disease, and how these experiences challenged her understanding of anthropology. Scheper-Hughes emphasizes the need for anthropology to confront the moral and ethical dilemmas of the world, to take a stand against injustice, and to be a tool for human liberation. She also critiques the postmodernist critique of anthropology, arguing that it often fails to engage with the real-world consequences of human suffering and oppression. Scheper-Hughes calls for a return to a more grounded, ethical anthropology that is committed to the well-being of the communities it studies. She highlights the importance of ethical accountability, the need for anthropology to be politically engaged, and the responsibility of anthropologists to recognize and address the suffering of the people they study. She also emphasizes the importance of cultural sensitivity and the need for anthropology to be a tool for understanding and addressing the complexities of human experience. Ultimately, Scheper-Hughes argues that anthropology must be ethically grounded and politically engaged, moving beyond the passive observer to become an active participant in the struggle for justice and human dignity.The Primacy of the Ethical: Propositions for a Militant Anthropology by Nancy Scheper-Hughes argues that anthropology must be ethically grounded and politically engaged, moving beyond cultural relativism to address the moral and ethical dimensions of human experience. Scheper-Hughes critiques the traditional role of the anthropologist as a neutral observer, advocating instead for a more active, morally committed approach that engages directly with issues of ethics and power. She reflects on her experiences in South Africa, Brazil, and Cuba, where she witnessed the devastating effects of political violence, poverty, and disease, and how these experiences challenged her understanding of anthropology. Scheper-Hughes emphasizes the need for anthropology to confront the moral and ethical dilemmas of the world, to take a stand against injustice, and to be a tool for human liberation. She also critiques the postmodernist critique of anthropology, arguing that it often fails to engage with the real-world consequences of human suffering and oppression. Scheper-Hughes calls for a return to a more grounded, ethical anthropology that is committed to the well-being of the communities it studies. She highlights the importance of ethical accountability, the need for anthropology to be politically engaged, and the responsibility of anthropologists to recognize and address the suffering of the people they study. She also emphasizes the importance of cultural sensitivity and the need for anthropology to be a tool for understanding and addressing the complexities of human experience. Ultimately, Scheper-Hughes argues that anthropology must be ethically grounded and politically engaged, moving beyond the passive observer to become an active participant in the struggle for justice and human dignity.