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According to Lee, the holistic perspective of anthropology is especially important when studying non-Western religion because_________

User Jonrsharpe
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Final answer:

The holistic perspective in anthropology is vital for studying non-Western religions to fully appreciate their complexities within their cultural contexts, through cultural relativism, and by collaborating with cultural insiders.

Step-by-step explanation:

According to Lee, the holistic perspective of anthropology is especially important when studying non-Western religion because it allows anthropologists to appreciate and understand the intricate connections and contradictions within a culture, especially regarding religious beliefs and practices. Holism in anthropology means examining cultural elements, including religion, as parts of a comprehensive whole. Anthropologists employ cultural relativism to set aside personal biases and study other cultures based on their values and standards, which is crucial when analyzing spiritual beliefs that greatly differ from Western perceptions. Furthermore, working collaboratively with cultural insiders is essential to gain a more in-depth and authentic understanding of the subtle nuances of religion, thereby acknowledging and minimizing power imbalances in ethnographic research.

User MSR
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