Comprometida: Lessons from ‘applied’ and ‘action’ anthropology in Guatemala

Abstract (English)

Anthropologists have long sought to influence policy and development interventions, yet they are often uneasy with the compromises these efforts entail. In this panel, we discuss and demonstrate how anthropologists and nutrition scientists have collaborated to translate social theory into practical applications in Guatemala. We advocate for antropología comprometida—a theory and method for critically addressing anthropology's history and moving the discipline forward. In Spanish, comprometido/a carries dual meanings: to be committed and also to be implicated--or compromised. Our panel draws inspiration from the work of Guatemalan anthropologist Antonio Goubaud Carrera, who envisioned "action" anthropology as a catalyst for community-based social change. The papers presented explore the actions of antropología comprometida through a collection of case studies, including an overview of applied anthropology at the Institute of Nutrition of Central America and Panama, cultural work at the metabolic research center CeSSIAM, and an examination of women’s feeding practices in a K’iche’ community. Collectively, these papers highlight the importance of conducting research that is reflexive about its commitments and compromises. Through these case studies, we offer insights into the practical and ethical dimensions of applying anthropology, demonstrating how anthropologists can navigate their commitments and compromises to foster meaningful social change.