Title
Understanding Culture : An Introduction to Anthropological Theory,Used
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Are cows sacred to Indian Hindus because they stand for nature and life, as symbolic analysts explain, or because they pull plows and fertilize the land, providing people with food, as cultural materialists argue? Do Muslim Sufi Orders incorporate the lower classes and stabilize the cultural status quo, as functionalists would assert, or are they dynamic forces reshaping society and culture, as processualists claim to illustrate? Are witchcraft accusations a scapegoating of the powerless by the elite to maintain their ascendancy, as materialist class theorists argue, or are they social expressions of psychological tensions arising from conflicts in relationships, as functionalist psychological anthropologists have argued? Understanding culture means understanding and appreciating the diverse theories that offer different perspectives on culture.Salzman's text explores six major streams of anthropological theory: interdependence in human life (functionalism); agency in human action (processualism and transactionalism); determining factors (materialism and political economy); coherence in culture (configurationalism and structuralism); transformation through time (history and evolution); and critical advocacy (feminism and postmodernism). Each theoretical approach is initially presented in its own terms, to show its assumptions, aims, and accomplishments. Each approach is elucidated and illustrated through the arguments and ethnographic examples offered by original theorists and astute practitioners.The introductory and concluding chapters of Understanding Culture frame the diverse theoretical positions and the debates among them within the broader philosophical opposition between explanation and explication. A caution is offered about presentism, the reflex acceptance of currently popular theories and easy dismissal of earlier theories, because an informed appreciation of a wide range of theoretical approaches is beneficial for understanding cultures. Includes glossary of major terms, brief biographies of major culture theorists, and suggestions for further reading.Also by Philip Carl Salzman and available from Waveland Press: Classic Comparative Anthropology: Studies from the Tradition (ISBN 9781577667100). Title of related interest also available from Waveland Press: Garbarino, Sociocultural Theory in Anthropology: A Short History (ISBN 9780881330564).
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- Q: What is the page count of 'Understanding Culture'? A: This book contains one hundred seventy-three pages. It provides a comprehensive exploration of anthropological theories.
- Q: What are the dimensions of 'Understanding Culture'? A: The book measures six inches in length, zero point five one inches in width, and eight point seventy-five inches in height.
- Q: What type of binding does 'Understanding Culture' have? A: This book is available in paperback binding. This format is popular for its portability and affordability.
- Q: Who is the author of 'Understanding Culture'? A: The author is Philip Carl Salzman. He is known for his work in anthropology and cultural studies.
- Q: What is the main subject of 'Understanding Culture'? A: The book focuses on anthropological theory. It explores various perspectives on culture and human behavior.
- Q: How can I apply the theories discussed in 'Understanding Culture'? A: You can apply these theories by analyzing cultural practices and social behaviors. The book provides frameworks for understanding diverse cultures.
- Q: Is 'Understanding Culture' suitable for beginners in anthropology? A: Yes, it is suitable for beginners. The text introduces major theories and concepts in an accessible manner.
- Q: What age group is 'Understanding Culture' appropriate for? A: This book is generally recommended for high school students and above. It covers complex theories that may require some background knowledge.
- Q: How should I care for my copy of 'Understanding Culture'? A: Keep it in a cool, dry place to prevent damage. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight to preserve the cover and pages.
- Q: What is the recommended storage method for 'Understanding Culture'? A: Store the book upright on a shelf. This will help maintain its shape and condition over time.
- Q: Is there a glossary in 'Understanding Culture'? A: Yes, the book includes a glossary of major terms. This feature aids in understanding the key concepts discussed.
- Q: What if my copy of 'Understanding Culture' arrives damaged? A: If it arrives damaged, contact the seller for a return or exchange. Most sellers have policies in place for damaged goods.
- Q: Can I return 'Understanding Culture' if I don't like it? A: Yes, you can typically return it within a specified period. Check the seller's return policy for details.
- Q: Is 'Understanding Culture' a good resource for advanced studies? A: Yes, it serves as a valuable resource for advanced studies in anthropology. The book discusses various theories in depth.
- Q: How does 'Understanding Culture' compare to other anthropology books? A: It provides a unique overview of multiple theoretical perspectives, making it distinct from other texts focused on single theories.
- Q: Does 'Understanding Culture' address contemporary cultural issues? A: Yes, it discusses various theoretical approaches that can be applied to contemporary cultural issues. This makes it relevant for modern discussions.