International Social Science Journal (Chinese Edition)

No.1, 2026

The Disciplinary Agenda of Indigenous Anthropology in Southeast Asia and Its Implications

(Abstract)

Gong Haoqun

The development path of indigenous anthropology in Southeast Asian countries reflects the shared historical context and disciplinary agenda faced by the social sciences in the Global South in the process of building their own intellectual systems. This agenda includes establishing basic propositions centering on decolonization and nation building, developing new paradigms through extensive regional connections, and reflecting upon and criticizing Western academic hegemony. It is a journey of seeking self-identity, exploring the world, and positioning oneself. The development trajectory of indigenous anthropology in Southeast Asia shares many similarities with the indigenization path of Chinese anthropology, providing a foundation for mutual understanding, mutual learning, and joint action between the two sides. Through mutual disciplinary learning, in-depth dialogue, and close cooperation, the Chinese anthropological community and the indigenous anthropological communities of Southeast Asia can work together to shape a new regional knowledge community.