Understanding Eskimo Science Richard Nelson Summary

Eskimos are an indigenous group of people that inhabit Alaska, Russia, Canada, and Greenland. These areas are known for its frozen, barren, and dangerous environment.Through time, Eskimos have adapted to to their natural world and developed numerous traditions and techniques to survive. Richard Nelson, an anthropologist, is known for his research on the indigenous people of Alaska. The majority of his work, focuses on the relationship between the people and nature. In his article, “Understanding Eskimo Science”, Nelson discusses Koyukon and Inupiaq traditions and attempts to explain the connection between indigenous people and their environment. In the article, “Understanding Eskimo Science”, the author introduces the Koyukon people. The Koyukon people reside in the boreal forest in Alaska. During winter, the land becomes frozen and wild animals vanish. Making it extremely difficult for anyone to survive. However, the Koyukons have learned to adapt and thrive in this harsh environment. In the article, Nelson mentions a tradition used when hunting and killing animals. The Koyukons believe animal spirits are aware and sensitive of how its body is treated (Nelson 1). To properly kill an animal, the feet must be removed first and certain body parts must be eaten away from the village …show more content…
In this article, Nelson discusses indigenous traditions and explains the connection between them and the environment. Nelson uses personal examples of how traditions benefit the survival of indigenous groups. He also uses examples from his stay with indigenous tribes to show the connection between indigenous people and nature. The article is written well with a clear objective and good supporting details. His argument is also properly supported with evidence. I agree with the author. Since indigenous people depend mainly on their environment. They form traditions and connections that are centered on