The Limits of Multiculturalism: Interrogating the Origins of American Anthropology

Scott Michaelsen delves into the roots of American anthropology, tracing its formation during the early nineteenth century when European influences began to intertwine with American identities. This exploration reveals how the field was shaped by broader societal currents, reflecting the complexities of cultural exchange and the paradoxes inherent in multiculturalism.

Michaelsen raises critical questions about the discipline's historical context, examining how prevailing ideas of race, identity, and culture at the time informed and sometimes constrained anthropological understanding. Through a rigorous analysis, the work challenges readers to reconsider the foundations of anthropology, urging a reevaluation of its impact on contemporary society and its ongoing relevance in discussions of multiculturalism today.