Kalervo Oberg: Pioneer of Culture Shock

Kalervo Oberg (1901-1973) was a pioneering anthropologist renowned for coining the term "culture shock." Born in British Columbia to Finnish parents, Oberg's early life was influenced by his diverse cultural background. He embarked on his academic journey at the University of British Columbia, earning a Bachelor of Economics, followed by a Master of Economics from the University of Pittsburgh. His academic pursuits culminated in a doctorate from the University of Chicago, where he completed a dissertation titled "The Social Economy of the Tlingit Indians of Alaska."

Oberg's passion for fieldwork was the cornerstone of his career. His extensive and wide-ranging fieldwork across various cultures distinguished him as a prominent figure in anthropology. He held numerous government positions overseas, working with the Institute of Inter-American Affairs, a precursor to the U.S. Agency for International Development. His assignments took him to Ecuador, Peru, Brazil, and Surinam, where he meticulously documented his experiences, providing valuable insights into diverse cultures.

In 1954, Oberg introduced the term "culture shock," a concept that became central to understanding the psychological impact of relocating to a new culture. He described culture shock as a condition with identifiable causes, symptoms, and remedies. According to Oberg, individuals undergoing culture shock often experience feelings of disorientation, frustration, and anxiety when confronted with unfamiliar cultural norms and practices. His observations highlighted the universal nature of this phenomenon, emphasizing that all human beings are susceptible to it when they move to a different cultural environment.

Oberg's work in applied anthropology extended beyond theoretical contributions; he actively shared his findings to help others navigate cross-cultural experiences. His legacy continues to influence the fields of anthropology and international development, providing a framework for understanding and managing cultural transitions.

Kalervo Oberg passed away in 1973, leaving behind a rich legacy of anthropological insights and a deeper understanding of the human experience across cultures. His concept of culture shock remains a fundamental idea in the study of cultural adaptation and continues to resonate in an increasingly globalized world.
Kalervo Oberg: Pioneer of Culture Shock