Ecuador’s Crude Reality

Abstract

<span>This ethnographic study contributes to the understanding of the widespread cultural (dis)attachment of Ecuadorian Quiteños from the Amazon rainforest by focusing on oil development in the region. While in recent years the international community has expressed interest in preserving the uniquely endemic areas of the Amazon, this study concludes that Quiteños have a strong cultural detachment from the Amazon. This study begins by providing a brief overview of the history and consequences of the oil development in Ecuador’s Amazonian regions. This study proceeds to analyze survey data and interview results conducted in Quito over a one-month period. Indicators of Quiteno’s cultural separation form the Amazon that emerge in this study include: overall partial to full agreement with oil development in the Amazon, the recurring idea of the “other” (Amazonian indigenous groups), lack of political involvement to preserve the Amazon, and opinions and skepticism regarding the Yasuní ITT Initiative. This study concludes by examining Quiteños’ unwavering hope for the younger generations to fight for the Amazon.</span>