Objective/context:

The neologism Anthropocene is one of the most discussed concepts in the scientific community today. The debates surrounding the new concept go above and beyond classical disciplinary boundaries, in particular the boundaries between natural and social sciences. The purpose of this article is to show that anthropology can also play an important role in this debate.

Methodology:

Through a fieldwork study conducted from 2011 to 2017 among the Q’ero of the Peruvian Andes (Cuzco region), this article discusses the neologism’s relevance in non-western societies.

Conclusions:

The article reveals that when confronted with non-Western societies, the concept of Anthropocene can make sense only if it is analyzed from non-naturalist points of view. Therefore, the concept and its possible reformulation open very stimulating reflections -even for naturalist ontologies- that can lead to a rethinking of other forms of life in common with non-human entities.

Originality:

The article shows that most of the Q’ero explain the climatic and atmospheric changes through the gradual abandonment of a number of rituals. It is precisely in these anthropic responsibilities that the discussion of the neologism in a non-modern society -such as the Q’ero of the Peruvian Andes- can stimulate debate regarding its relevance.

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