Filial Obsessions

P. Steven Sangren

ISBN 10: 3319504924 / ISBN 13: 9783319504926

Published by Springer International Publishing AG, CH, 2017

About this Item

Seller Inventory # LU-9783319504926

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Filial Obsessions
• Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG, CH
• Publication Date: 2017
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 3319504924
• ISBN 13: 9783319504926
• Binding: Hardback
• Edition: 1st ed. 2017.
• Condition: New
• Dimensions: 14.81W x 2.24H x 21.01D centimeters 14.81 centimeters width by 2.24 centimeters height by 21.01 centimeters depth
• Weight: 626 grams

About this title

Synopsis

This book employs a broad analysis of Chinese patriliny to propose a distinctive theoretical conceptualization of the role of desire in culture. It utilizes a unique synthesis of Marxian and psychoanalytic insights in arguing that Chinese patriliny is best understood as, simultaneously, “a mode of production of desire” and as “instituted fantasy.” The argument advances through discussions and analyses of kinship, family, gender, filial piety, ritual, and (especially) mythic narratives. In each of these domains, P. Steven Sangren addresses the complex sentiments and ambivalences associated with filial relations. Unlike most earlier studies which approach Chinese patriliny and filial piety as irreducible markers of cultural difference, Sangren argues that Chinese patriliny is better approached as a topic of critical inquiry in its own right. 

About the Author

P. Steven Sangren is Professor of Anthropology and Asian Studies at Cornell University, USA. His work focuses on Chinese culture and society―especially gender, religion, and mythic narrative.