Dissertation Research: A Myco-Scopic Perspective on Beringian History

University Of Alaska Fairbanks Campus, Fairbanks AK

Investigators

Abstract

This is a Dissertation Research proposal by Peter Schweitzer and Sveta Yamin of the University of Alaska, Fairbanks, to do comparative research in Alaska and Russia, Beringian region, on the social dimensions of taste, starting from the divergent cultural attitudes of these populations toward mushrooms. Utilizing ethnographic and ethnohistoric research methods, the proposed project aims to better understand the historic and contemporary social-cultural context of Beringian populations through the symbolic, economic, historic and political meanings and uses of mushrooms specifically and food generally.