Plot Summary

Darkness in El Dorado

Patrick Tierney
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Darkness in El Dorado

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2000

Book Brief

Patrick Tierney

Darkness in El Dorado

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2000
Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Amazon Rainforest • 1960s

Publication Year

2000

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Darkness in El Dorado by Patrick Tierney accuses researchers, including James V. Neel and Napoleon Chagnon, of unethical actions impacting the Yanomamö people, like improper vaccine use, fostering violence, and lacking informed consent for biological sample collection, while also alleging sexual exploitation by other scientists, creating significant controversy and prompting investigations that validated some but not all claims. The book includes descriptions of sexual abuse and exploitation, and invasive medical procedures on indigenous people.

Contemplative

Mysterious

Unnerving

Dark

Informative

Reviews & Readership

4.0

215 ratings

60%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Patrick Tierney's Darkness in El Dorado has polarized critics. Positive reviews highlight its investigative depth into unethical anthropological practices in the Amazon, sparking necessary debate. Conversely, critics argue that some claims lack robust evidence and sensationalize events, questioning the overall credibility. Its impact on the anthropology field is undeniable.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Darkness in El Dorado?

A reader who would enjoy Darkness in El Dorado by Patrick Tierney is likely intrigued by investigative journalism and anthropological controversies. They might also appreciate books like Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer or The Lost City of Z by David Grann, which delve into the complexities of human exploration and ethical dilemmas.

4.0

215 ratings

60%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

Darkness in El Dorado stirred significant controversy in anthropological and academic circles due to its critical portrayal of certain field practices and ethical considerations in the study of the Yanomami people.

The publication of the book led to various investigations and debates about the conduct of anthropologists in the field, highlighting ethical dilemmas and the impact of academic work on indigenous communities.

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Despite the controversy, the book prompted a broader discussion about the responsibilities of researchers towards the communities they study, influencing how field research ethics are taught and considered in academia.

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Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Amazon Rainforest • 1960s

Publication Year

2000

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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