An Introduction to Social Anthropology: Sharing Our Worlds

Description

An essential core textbook that leads the reader from Social Anthropology's foundational approaches and theories to the fundamental areas that characterise the field today. Taking a truly global and holistic view, it includes a wide range of case studies, touching on topics that both divide and connect us, such as family, marriage and religion. Fully updated and revised, the third edition of this popular textbook continues to introduce students to what Social Anthropology is, what anthropologists do, how and what they contribute, and how even a limited knowledge of anthropology can help people flourish in today's world. This is an inviting, engaging and enjoyable text that has established itself as a comprehensive introduction to social and cultural anthropology. Written in an accessible style, and including a wide range of pedagogical features, it is ideally suited to new or prospective students seeking to better understand the discipline and its roots. New to this Edition: - Includes a new chapter on the role of social and cultural anthropologists and the specific methods they use in a fast-changing world - Features a number of new first-hand accounts to explore difficult concepts through people's real world experiences - Updated sections for further exploration, including books, articles, novels, films and websites

Joy Hendry is Professor Emerita in Anthropology at Oxford Brookes University, senior member of St. Antony's College, Oxford University, UK, and Honorary Fellow of the University of Edinburgh, UK. Her previous books include Science and Sustainability: Learning from Indigenous Wisdom (2014), Understanding Japanese Society (4th edition, 2013) and Reclaiming Culture (2005).

"This is the book that every social anthropology student needs. Hendry guides her readers through the breadth and depth of the discipline whilst simultaneously transmitting a profound sense of why anthropology is a field to be passionate about." -Cathrine Degnen, Newcastle University, UK "This is without doubt one of the best introductory texts on social anthropology that exists. Much of the book's success lies in its lively, engaging and accessible style: Hendry has a knack of simplifying complex arguments and making anthropological ideas not only interesting but also fun." -Cris Shore, The University of Auckland, New Zealand "Joy Hendry offers the perfect introductory guide to anthropology for students as well as a curious public. This is the book I reach for first as a teacher because of its topical breadth, attention to history, and the sheer excitement it conveys about what an anthropological gaze can offer." -Tamara Kohn, University of Melbourne, Australia "With examples from around the world, a wide palette of topics, and clear explanations of key concepts and theories, this is a highly engaging and vividly rendered introduction to social and cultural anthropology for new students and general readers alike." -Willam W. Kelly, Yale University, USA "Sharing Our Worlds is a superb learning experience for anyone curious about humanity and cultural dynamics. Joy Hendry dazzles with provocative questions, compelling stories, and profound answers." -Christopher C. Fennell, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, USA.