What is Ethnoastronomy?

Question

Why is it important for the study of indigenous cultures?

Answer 1

Ethnoastronomy is the study of astronomical beliefs and practices from different cultures.  

Knowing a culture's astronomical point of view is helpful because it tells you how the culture places itself in the "big picture."  Who made the sky?  What are the stars and how did they get there?  What is the deal with the sun and the moon?  Where do these things come from?  Did a god put them there and determine their movements, or did a human do it?  Does celestial movement affect the lives of individuals?  

The answers to these questions will help the anthropologist explain why and how the culture interacts within its environment, usually, but not limited to, agriculture and religion.