Andrew C. Willford

Andrew C. Willford is a Professor at the Department of Anthropology at Cornell University, where he delves into the intricate intersections of psychological and phenomenological aspects of selfhood, identity, and subjectivity within the frameworks of power and statecraft. His scholarly pursuits are deeply rooted in understanding the politics of language, religion, identity, and belonging, with a particular focus on regions such as Bangalore, India, and Malaysia. Professor Willford's research is distinguished by its interdisciplinary approach, bridging the fields of symbolic and psychological anthropology, medical anthropology, and ethnography. He is particularly interested in how language and religion intersect to shape individual and collective identities, and how these elements contribute to broader socio-political dynamics. His work often examines the role of revivalism and identity politics in shaping contemporary cultural landscapes. In his current research endeavors, Professor Willford is exploring the complex relationships between mental health, psychiatry, neurology, and religious healing traditions in both India and North America. This work seeks to uncover how these diverse elements influence individual and community well-being, and how they are negotiated within different cultural and social contexts. Professor Willford's contributions to the field have been widely recognized, with his work being published in numerous academic journals and books. He is an active member of the American Anthropological Association and the American Ethnological Society, where his insights into the intersections of religion, mental health, and identity continue to influence contemporary anthropological discourse. Through his teaching and research, Professor Willford aims to foster a deeper understanding of the complex ways in which cultural, psychological, and political factors intersect to shape human experience. His dedication to exploring these themes has made him a respected figure in the field of anthropology, both within and beyond the academic community.