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An Introduction to Social Anthropology

Sharing Our Worlds
3.79 goodreads logo

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( 80 ratings, 9 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
An Introduction to Social Anthropology by Joy Hendry is an essential core textbook guiding readers from foundational theories of social anthropology to its defining contemporary topics. Presenting a truly global and holistic perspective, it explores case studies around themes such as family, marriage, and religion, highlighting both divisions and connections within human societies. The third edition is fully updated, incorporating a new chapter on the role and methods of social anthropologists in a changing world, alongside first-hand accounts that illuminate complex concepts. This accessible and engaging text is designed for students beginning their journey in social and cultural anthropology and anyone interested in how this discipline contributes to understanding and thriving in today's world.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This textbook is ideally suited for new and prospective students of social and cultural anthropology as well as educators seeking an engaging introduction to the discipline. Its accessible style and comprehensive coverage also make it a valuable resource for a curious general readership interested in anthropological perspectives on human societies.

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Fully updated and revised, the third edition of this popular textbook continues to introduce students to what anthropology is, what anthropologists do, how and what they contribute, and how even a limited knowledge of anthropology can help people succeed in today's world.

Reviews for previous edition: 'This is an indispensable text. Hendry conveys key principles in an accessible way without ever losing sight of what it is that makes anthropology such a dynamic and exciting field.' Dr Cathrine Degnen, University of Newcastle 'A real breakthrough in every way. I was enormously impressed with the design and with the author's efforts to offer the reader enlightenment through the superb lists of books, articles, films, novels and websites. The book is an immensely enjoyable and accessible read and it has a democratic feel.' Barry Dufour, De Montfort University 'From my own experience I know this book works well with students - and indeed with anyone who is curious about what anthropology is. Hendry deals with a broad range of topics - from what it means to do fieldwork to the classical contributions that have shaped anthropological discourse; from individual symbols to larger constellations of cultural and social organization.' Professor Leif Manger, University of Bergen

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! 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

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Cathrine Degnen from Newcastle University praises the book as essential for every social anthropology student, highlighting Hendry's ability to convey both the discipline's breadth and passion. Cris Shore of The University of Auckland commends the lively and accessible style, noting how complex ideas are made engaging and fun. Tamara Kohn at the University of Melbourne endorses it as the ideal introductory guide with its topical coverage, historical attention, and stimulating perspective.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781137431547

Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 21 April 2016

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Bloomsbury Academic

Edition: 3rd edition

Illustration: 20 bw illus

Audience: Tertiary education

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 26.0mm

Width: 152.0mm

Height: 234.0mm

Weight: 580g

Pages: 394

About the Author

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).

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