Encounters with an Anthropologist

This article explores three elements of Laura Nader’s work through an ethnographic description and analysis of the author’s encounters with her over a thirty-year period. It reflects upon aspects of her ethnographic, political, and ethical commitments, how these elements manifest themselves in her written work, and how they have influenced the projects and careers of her students and colleagues over the past six decades. The piece concludes with an annotated list of aphorisms that have provided counsel, guidance, and inspiration to many anthropologists during the course of her career.