Final answer:
The quantity of ethnographic studies has not necessarily increased, but there has been a significant shift in the paradigm towards a more ethical, respectful, and inclusive approach to studying native peoples. Criticisms have led anthropologists to reconsider historical biases, the importance of local cultural identities, and power relations within the field.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering whether ethnographic studies of natives have risen, it's important to understand the historical and current controversies in the field, as well as the distinction between ethnography and other methodologies. Critics argue that some ethnographic and anthropological studies have been biased, seeking to confirm preconceived notions about native peoples. This has led to a mistrust of solely relying on field notes without comparing them to elder knowledge. Furthermore, the practices of cultural appropriation and exploitation by some anthropologists have been criticized. The landscape of research has been changing with an increasing acknowledgment of these concerns and a move towards a more ethical and inclusive research approach. Therefore, the worthiness of these studies has been undergoing critical evaluation rather than simply a numeric increase in studies.
Additionally, globalization has altered and enhanced local cultural identities, posing further challenges about who has the right to study, claim, or use cultural elements. Despite globalization, ethnographic studies still need to understand local structures and identities, as they provide valuable insights into cultural practices and societal norms. This is reflected in the broad range of settings where ethnographers carry out their work. In light of the criticisms from tribal scholars, there has been a push for a more equitable approach in anthropology. This involves questioning the traditional hegemony of Western scholars over native voices and the dynamics of research concerning power and representation. Thus, rather than increasing quantity, what might be observed is a transformation in the practice and principles of ethnographic research.