Search

The karst region of Sagada in the Mountain Province of Luzon, Philippines, is famous for its cave entrances graced with pine log coffins. These are the final resting places of the ancient Sagadans, laid to rest after complex rituals. The caves' exterior walls are often adorned with what are termed "hanging coffins." This historical practice has always fascinated me, as its origins and purposes were not clear until I discovered the works of Viveiros de Castro. His intricate and nuanced view on perspectivism has profoundly influenced cultural anthropology. His approach is unconventional and is expressed in academic books and journals in a language filled with complex phrases and concepts that are difficult for the layperson to grasp. Therefore, I have decided to present my findings through a narrative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is an attempt to explore the continuing relevance of Nietzsche's genealogical analysis of Western rationality to the sociology of knowledge. While Nietzsche is often neglected in classical sociological theory textbooks, this paper argues that Nietzsche has a very significant contribution to sociological theory especially in the field of knowledge production. Recent sociologists are now acknowledging this tradition. Hence this paper discusses how the basic tenets of Nietzsche's critique of Western metaphysics and positivism can be harnessed to create a powerful critique of contemporary sociological understanding of knowledge construction and its legitimation in society. Some of these themes are discussed at the end of the paper especially in relation to Philippine sociology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]