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Five Key Concepts in Anthropological Thinking 1/e
Richard J. Perry Ph.D.
Published September 2002 by Prentice Hall
Copyright 2003, 228 pp., Paper
ISBN: 0-13-097140-5
List Price:
$34.80
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In-Stock
   
Preface
Summary

This highly readable introduction discusses anthropological theory in a manner accessible to lay readers, yet does not oversimplify the material. KEY TOPICS: Addresses five key concepts—evolution, culture, structure, function, and relativism—rather than individual theorists, and conveys the sense that their theory and associated debates can be interesting despite their complexity. Presents a balanced view of varying theoretical positions to pique readers' interest and avoid confusion. Uses clear, straightforward language, avoiding esoteric jargon. Critiques certain theoretical positions, including 19th-century racist theories and contemporary post-structural and postmodernist approaches. Includes a glossary of key terms that are highlighted throughout. MARKET: A thought-provoking reference for anyone interested in learning about anthropology.

Features

  • A focus on the key concepts of Anthropology with an emphasis on the continuity of ideas rather than a chronology of theorists or predominant schools of thought.

    • Makes material more lively and relevant to students.

  • Clear, straightforward language—Avoids esoteric jargon and convoluted constructions.

    • Helps students to grapple with the major questions in anthropology by challenging them to assess and evaluate competing positions and to participate actively in these debates.

  • Critiques theoretical positions—Including 19th-century racial theories and contemporary post-structural and postmodernist approaches.

    • Gives students a broad view of multiple approaches to the central issues of anthropology.

  • End-of-chapter discussion questions throughout.

    • Encourages classroom interaction and helps reinforce concepts.

  • End-of-text glossary of key terms that are highlighted throughout.

    • Familiarizes students with unfamiliar terms.
Table of Contents

(NOTE: Each chapter concludes with Discussion Questions.)

1. Introduction.


2. The Idea of Evolution.


3. The Idea of Culture.


4. The Idea of Structure.


5. The Idea of Function.


6. The Idea of Relativism.


7. Epilogue.


Glossary.


References.


Index.


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