Life stories and subjectivity under siege

Abstract

This article explores the multifaceted nature of life stories and subjectivity within contemporary ethnographic research. It examines how the rise of subjective expression in various forms challenges traditional collective and individual identities. By exploring the relationship between life stories and subjectivity, the study highlights the increasing platforms for personal narratives, ranging from digital media to autobiographical accounts. The author explores the implications of this trend for both anthropological practice and broader understandings of identity construction. Through a critical analysis of current practices and historical perspectives, the article examines how ethnographers integrate life stories into their research, acknowledging the complexity of subjectivity. Methodologically, the study involves a thorough literature review and analysis of autobiographical and ethnographic texts, reflecting on the evolving role of the ethnographer's subjectivity in shaping research outcomes. This comprehensive examination provides insights into the ongoing interplay between individual narratives and collective memory, and highlights the importance of life stories in ethnographic documentation and interpretation.