Classic Readings In Cultural Anthropology
(Gary Ferraro)
A SynopsisByBlueberry BluffsOf the bookClassic Readings In Cultural AnthropologyByGary FerraroClassic Readings In Cultural Anthropology is a collection of writings by various authors on differing cultures, how they came about and some of the reasons behind them. It is designed and widely used as a college-level textbook to teach Cultural Anthropology.I found the book and the subject matter extremely informative and immensely interesting. The contributors give a wonderful view into various cultures throughout the world, including those practiced by the people of the United States.It is amazing how the diverse cultures are sustained even though certain peoples migrate to different areas. It is hard to imagine these separate ways of life coming together in the great melting pot, the United States, where so many people choose to call home.Through this text we are given a glimpse into cultures ranging from the mundane to the bazaar. It gives one a chance to understand the cultural habits of our friends, neighbors and even our own families.It has been said that prejudice stems from fear; perhaps it is the fear of the unknown. This book brings many of our cultural differences to light so that we may understand each other a bit better and live together with a greater sense of peace.Each section of the book features a separate author and their thoughts and opinions on cultural anthropology. Two of these sections were of particular interest to me.The first is (Society and Sex Roles) by Ernestine Friedle.<1> In this section she writes on the wave of feminism that began in the 1960?s and continues today.Women began the feminist revolution by burning their bras as a symbolism of freedom. They continue to rally for the end of stereotyping, sexual harassment and domestic violence. Apparently it is a never-ending battle. The fact that women still receive only 68% of the hourly wage a man earns in the same employment category shows progress has been slow. This also points out that women have very little impact when it comes to social and cultural objection.The second section of interest, (The Notion of Witchcraft Explains Unfortunate Events) by E. E. Evans-Pritchard.<2> Where HIV and AIDS are concerned, he perceives the reason the government of South Africa has not done more to help the diseased population may be the Zanda belief in witchcraft as a cause for any and all misfortune.Pritchard states, ?? if, in fact, any failure or misfortune falls upon anyone at any time and in relation to any of the manifold activities of his life it may have to do with witchcraft.? (E. E. Evans-Pritchard, Classic Readings in Cultural Anthropology by Gary Ferraro, Wadsworth Publishing.) Because these people believe a spell of some sort may have been cast upon them, they do not believe the disease can be helped by conventional medicine and perhaps even the practice of prevention. This book is truly an informative and essential tool for anyone interested in learning about Cultural Anthropology, as well as, a desire between individuals as an attempt for all to live a more harmonious life together.<1> Section V , Gender, page 48, Classic Readings in Cultural Anthropology, Gary Ferraro.<1> Section VII, Supernatural Beliefs, page 84, Classic Readings in Cultural Anthropology, Gary FerraroReference:Classic Readings in Cultural Anthropology, By Gary Ferraro, Copyright 2003, Wadsworth Publishing, ISBN# 0534612725<1> Section V , Gender, page 48, Classic Readings in Cultural Anthropology, Gary Ferraro.<2> Section VII, Supernatural Beliefs, page 84, Classic Readings in Cultural Anthropology, Gary Ferraro.
Resumos Relacionados
- The Clan Of The Cave Bear
- Archaeology; Origin And Definitions
- The Sacred Writing
- Doing Cultural Studies
- Eurodiversity
|
|