J. Woodburn, INDIGENOUS DISCRIMINATION - THE IDEOLOGICAL BASIS FOR LOCAL DISCRIMINATION AGAINST HUNTER-GATHERER MINORITIES IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA, Ethnic and racial studies, 20(2), 1997, pp. 345-361
In rural Africa differences in modes of subsistence are widely represe
nted as ethnic differences. A fundamental distinction is often made be
tween agriculturalists, pastoralists and hunter-gatherers. Evidence su
ggests that these categories are indigenous and enduring. This article
focuses on serious discrimination against hunter-gatherer ethnic mino
rities. The forms of discrimination considered are negative stereotype
s, denial of rights and segregation. Reasons underlying these forms of
discrimination are analysed - the political weakness of hunter-gather
ers, the distorted notions that they are impoverished, backward, unciv
ilized, eaters of revolting foods and animal-like or child-like in the
ir behaviour. Less negative notions are also assessed: hunter-gatherer
s as original inhabitants, their identification with fertility and as
shedders of blood. Religious responses to such hegemonic ideologies an
d to discrimination are considered. Hunter-gatherer religions are not
usually religions of protest but are focused on their own sense of sel
f-worth, on the celebration of their distinctive ways of life, on heal
th and well-being.