A History of Anthropological Theory - Softcover

Erickson, Paul A.; Murphy, Liam D.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1551115263 ISBN 13: 9781551115269

Publisher: University of Toronto Press, Higher Education Division, 2003

Synopsis

This overview of the history of anthropological theory provides a comprehensive history from antiquity through to the twenty-first century, with a focus on the twentieth century and beyond. Unlike other volumes, it also offers a four-field introduction to theory. As a stand-alone text, or used in conjunction with the companion volume Readings for a History of Anthropological Theory, Erickson and Murphy offer a comprehensive, affordable, and contemporary introduction to anthropological theory.

The third edition has been updated and fully revised throughout to closely parallel the presentation in the companion reader, making it easier to use both books in tandem. New original essays by contemporary theorists bring theories to life, and portraits of important theorists make it a handsome volume. Sources and suggested readings have been updated, and glossary definitions have been updated, streamlined, and standardized.

About this title

About the Author

Paul A. Erickson is Professor and Chair of the Department of Anthropology at Saint Mary's University in Halifax.

Review

A History of Anthropological Theory continues to stand well apart from its peers in both its narrative elegance and broad disciplinary sweep. Essays written by Janice Boddy, Lee Baker, and Lila Abu-Lughod are particularly exciting contributions to this edition, as they offer students rich and highly personal insight into the dynamic interplay between anthropological fieldwork, theory, and analysis. (Terri Castaneda, California State University, Sacramento)

The third edition of an already popular book hits the mark once again in several important ways. First, it continues to promote the time-honoured four-field approach to anthropology. This is critical for students' understanding of the interconnected nature of ideas and the human experience. Second, the glossary and review questions are enhanced and are an added bonus. And finally, new life is breathed into theory with the 'stories' of contemporary anthropologists, who bring their uses of anthropological theory to life for the readers.

(Yolanda Moses, University of California, Riverside)

Erickson and Murphy's uniquely accessible and intelligent text draws students into a 'dialogue with the ancestors.' The coverage is extraordinary (especially when paired with the companion volume of readings) and resituates the history of anthropology as essential to contemporary disciplinary practice.

(Regna Darnell, University of Western Ontario)

Edition details

• Publisher: University of Toronto Press, Higher Education Division
• Publication date: 2003
• ISBN 10: 1551115263
• ISBN 13: 9781551115269
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 283