Cultural Anthropology: A Perspective on the Human Condition

Cultural Anthropology: A Perspective on the Human Condition is an introductory cultural anthropology text that explores the interplay of cultural creativity, human agency, and material constraint in the shaping of human cultural traditions. By focusing on contemporary applications of anthropology, the text encourages students to think critically about culture and to view the world in new ways. The authors incorporate cutting-edge theory into solid coverage of traditional topics and pay special attention to issues of power and inequality in the contemporary world, including gender inequalities, racism, ethnic discrimination, nationalism, caste, and class. Covering the material in 14 chapters, the text fits well into a semester-long introductory course structure. 'In Their Own Words' commentaries expose students to alternative perspectives from non-anthropologists and indigenous peoples, and 'EthnoProfile' boxes provide maps and ethnographic summaries of each society discussed at length in the text. The text also features many pedagogical aids, including a running glossary, chapter summaries and key terms at chapter ends, and annotated suggestions for further reading. Features: *Addresses issues of power and inequality in the contemporary world-including racism, ethnic discrimination, nationalism, caste, and class *Incorporates cutting-edge theory and gender and feminist anthropology throughout *Takes an explicitly global approach, discussing ways in which the spread of capitalism has drastically reshaped how people everywhere live their lives *Presents new voices and alternative perspectives from non-anthropologists and indigenous peoples through 'In Their Own Words' commentaries *Provides ethnographic summaries-with maps-of each society discussed at length in the text in 'EthnoProfile' boxes *Integrates additional helpful pedagogical aids including key terms, a running glossary, chapter summaries, maps, and annotated suggestions for further reading Covers the material in 14 chapters-an ideal text for a one-semester course New to the Eighth Edition: *Anthropology in Everyday Life boxes continually show students the relevance of cultural anthropology. *For Review sections at chapter ends include discussion questions and prompts that connect chapters and support hands-on learning. *'Arguing anthropology' critical thinking questions are available on the book's companion website. *Complex discussions are more readable and accessible, presenting basic concepts more concretely before moving into theory and debate. *New 'In Their Own Words' commentaries expose students to alternative perspectives from non-anthropologists and indigenous peoples. Supplements: *Companion Website featuring (1) Student Resources, including a study skills guide, flashcards, self-quizzes, chapter outlines, and helpful links; (2) Instructor Resources, including PowerPoint presentations for lectures, filmographies, activities, discussion questions, and guest editorials; and (3) a chapter on human evolution *Computerized Test Bank and Instructor's Manual on CD *Cartridges for Course Management Systems