Map is one of the powerful tools for human beings to understand,describe and interpret the world.Anthropologists use maps to mark field locations and describe the spatio-temporal range of the life of the studied ethnic groups,so as to vividly"depict"the world and ethnic groups in multiple ways.In the broad scope of anthropological research on world ethnic groups,the use of map method has been extensive and frequent,but there is still a lack of specialized discussion on map method-the use of map shows a"free growth"state,while improper use,errors and misuse occur from time to time,thus becoming a relatively weak link in anthropological methodology research.This article intends to explore the use of maps in the field of world ethnography from a brand new perspective:starting from systematically tracing and analyzing the profound origins of anthropology and map method by reviewing pioneering explorations undertaken by Ratzel and Boas;to elaborating on the maps of indigenous peoples around the world produced during the colonial period,particularly their complex association with world ethnographic research;and further to focusing on,in the third part,the rapid development,reflective criticism as well as innovative and comprehensive application of map method in the context of globalization.This article argues that the use of map method in anthropology has promoted the development of world ethnographic research in many ways,but on the whole,the understanding and use of map method by anthropology are still relatively weak.Under the new situation,we urgently need to significantly improve the professional understanding of map method,sort out and reflect on the"gains and losses"of map use in academic history,and draw valuable experience and inspiration from it,which is not only a key step to strengthen the"methodological toolkit"of anthropology,but also of great and positive significance to promote the study of world ethnic groups in China.
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