Anthropology
originated as the study of “primitive”
cultures. But the notion of “primitive”
exposes presumptions of “civilized”
superiority and the right of the West to speak
for “less evolved” others. With
the fall of Empire, anthropology became suspect
and was torn by dissension from within. Did
anthropology serve as a “handmaiden to
colonialism”? Is it a “science”
created by racism to prove racism? Does it
aid communication between cultures or reinforce
our differences?
Introducing
Anthropology is a fascinating account of an
uncertain human science seeking to transcend
its unsavoury history. It traces the evolution
of anthropology from its genesis in Ancient
Greece to its varied forms in contemporary
times. Anthropology’s key concepts and
methods are explained, and we are presented
with such big-name anthropologists as Franz
Boas, Bronislaw Malinowski, E.E. Evans-Pritchard,
Margaret Mead and Claude Lévi-Strauss.
The new varieties of self-critical and postmodern
anthropologies are examined, and the leading
question – of the impact of anthropology
on non-Western cultures – is given centre-stage.
Introducing
Anthropology is lucid in its arguments, its
good humour supported by apt and witty illustrations.
This book offers a highly accessible invitation
into anthropology.
***
Merryl
Wyn Davies is a writer, anthropologist and
television producer, who has worked on religious
programmes for the BBC. She is also the co-author,
with Ziauddin Sardar, of the bestselling Why
Do People Hate America? and American Dream,
Global Nightmare.
Piero
is an illustrator and graphic designer whose
work has twice been included in the Royal
College of Art’s “The Best of British
Illustration”. He has also illustrated
Introducing Shakespeare, Introducing Psychiatry
and Introducing Nietzsche.
