The IOA and the present time

Abstract

The closing article on the Otaval Institute of Anthropology (IOA) reflects on the impact and evolution of the institution in the cultural and social context. It questions whether the IOA has been elitist and clarifies that, although it uses academic mechanisms, its ultimate goal is to serve the people and promote social change, turning research into a popular product of transcendence. The different stages of the IOA are analyzed, highlighting the need for a third stage that evaluates its legal, economic and scientific reality, and proposes innovative alternatives. The article also addresses the prestige of the IOA, arguing that its credibility and realism are essential to maintain a balanced prestige. Finally, the attitude of the IOA towards national problems is discussed, promoting a cultural fusion that revalues indigenous cultures and proposes fair solutions to current conflicts, in line with national identity and respect for cultural diversity.