Entry Seven

Chapter 6

This chapter deals primarily with how the Pygmies resolve conflict, and through conflict resolution we learn what they value. These points are illustrated through a series of stories. Through these stories we learn a lot about the cognition of the Pygmies, how they internalize the external world.

1.   

            Ridicule- done in very many ways

Ridicule is a very effective punishment. Once someone is ridiculed whatever they say has no weight and nobody will listen to them. The BaMbuti frequently joke about one another, but their humor can “be turned into an instrument of punishment when they choose” (114). This usage of humor is a form of expression that is a cultural norm.

2.       Contempt (ignoring)

This is also a very effective way to pass judgment. In a lifestyle that revolves around interaction with other people, having no one speak to you is a harsh punishment.

3.       Everyone taking part in everything- the need for cooperation (i.e. no personal authority…)

Because of the Pygmy conception that everyone is equal and must participate in everything, their system of punishment requires the involvement of everyone. Because cooperation is the key to the success of the society, it is expected and required from everyone. Responsibility is communal, and everyone is expected to live in line with the cultural conceptions of what a BaMbuti is. Therefore, there is no need for personal authority.

4.       Making too much noise “killing the forest, killing the hunt”

This form of conception I do not quite understand; I feel like it is pretty important but I do not completely understand what it is. It is mentioned twice in this chapter, first when Kenge was caught with Manyalibo’s daughter, and again as an explanation of how an argument stops. In the situation with Kenge, Manyalibo makes a lot of noise in his argument of Kenge’s immorality. Kenge’s defense, that they are making too much noise, is supported by Moke who says “You are making too much noise—you are killing the forest, you are killing the hunt. It is for us older men to sleep at night and not to worry about the youngsters. They know what to do and what not to do.” I think this relates to the last sentence, the reason that the Pygmies have no chiefs, because “they are people of the forest”. The forest is their judge and they do what is in line with what will guarantee their survival. The survival of the Pygmy depends on cooperation. If one is making too much noise there is no cooperation; if they are killing the forest and the hunt then their chance for survival is less. Because the MaMbuti conceive of themselves as dependent for survival on the forest being happy, if the forest is being disturbed, then automatically the argument becomes something that needs to be dropped.

Brief paragraph:

This chapter can be analyzed, as I have said before, under Particularist and Relativist theory. The Pygmy culture is unique, with ridicule and contempt being effective forms of punishment. Pygmy culture also lacks formal structures. With such unique cultural aspects it is vital that it be analyzed in its own cultural context in order for understanding.