Secondhand Anthropology & Sociology Bargain Book Box DSH1053

Secondhand Anthropology & Sociology Bargain Book Box

This intellectual treasury contains nineteen volumes dedicated to the study of human society, culture, and political thought. The collection offers a deep dive into the social sciences, featuring foundational texts by giants of anthropology like Clifford Geertz, Mary Douglas, and E.E. Evans-Pritchard. It also includes a significant selection of works analyzing Marxist theory, philosophy, and the sociology of religion. From the intricate symbols of culture to the broad sweep of historical materialism, these books provide essential reading for students, scholars, and anyone interested in how human societies function. Each book is secondhand and may show signs of wear.

1. The Interpretation of Cultures by Clifford Geertz This seminal work in symbolic anthropology argues that culture is a web of significance that must be interpreted to be understood. Geertz presents a series of essays, including his famous analysis of the Balinese cockfight, to demonstrate his "thick description" method. It remains one of the most influential books in the field of social science.

2. Sociology of Religion edited by Roland Robertson This anthology gathers essential readings on the sociological study of religion, covering both classical theories and modern interpretations. It explores the relationship between religious beliefs and social structures, examining how faith shapes and is shaped by society. The collection offers a broad overview of the discipline's key debates.

3. Evans-Pritchard by Mary Douglas In this concise volume from the Modern Masters series, renowned anthropologist Mary Douglas analyzes the work of E.E. Evans-Pritchard. She explores his contributions to the understanding of African societies, witchcraft, and magic. It serves as an insightful introduction to the thought of one of Britain's most important social anthropologists.

4. Karl Marx: Selected Writings in Sociology and Social Philosophy edited by T.B. Bottomore and Maximilien Rubel This collection focuses on the sociological and philosophical aspects of Marx's work, rather than just his economic theories. It organizes his writings on alienation, class struggle, and historical materialism into a coherent framework. The book provides a solid foundation for understanding Marx's critique of society.

5. Marxism and Anthropology by Maurice Bloch Bloch investigates the complex relationship between Marxist theory and anthropological research. He critiques traditional approaches to kinship and social structure, offering a Marxist perspective on pre-capitalist societies. The book bridges the gap between two major fields of social inquiry.

6. Social Anthropology by E.E. Evans-Pritchard Based on a series of broadcast lectures, this book offers a clear and accessible introduction to the scope and history of social anthropology. Evans-Pritchard discusses the methods of fieldwork and the theoretical aims of the discipline. It is a classic text that defines the British school of anthropology.

7. The Philosophy of Mind edited by Jonathan Glover This volume collects key essays on the nature of consciousness, the mind-body problem, and personal identity. Featuring contributions from leading philosophers, it explores how we understand our own mental states and those of others. It is a rigorous examination of the central questions in the philosophy of mind.

8. Mirror for Man by Clyde Kluckhohn Kluckhohn provides a classic introduction to anthropology intended for the general reader, explaining what the study of different cultures reveals about humanity. He argues that understanding cultural differences is essential for solving global problems and understanding our own behavior. The book remains a persuasive case for the value of the anthropological perspective.

9. In the Active Voice by Mary Douglas This collection of essays by Mary Douglas applies her structuralist approach to a wide range of topics, from economics to consumer behavior. She examines how goods and consumption are used to create social meaning and maintain relationships. It showcases the versatility and insight of her anthropological method.

10. The Social & Political Thought of Karl Marx by Shlomo Avineri Avineri offers a comprehensive analysis of Marx's intellectual evolution, bridging the gap between his early humanistic writings and his later economic works. The book emphasizes the coherence of Marx's thought and his focus on human liberation. It is considered a standard scholarly work on Marx's political philosophy.

11. The Transition from Feudalism to Capitalism by R.J. Holton This text examines the historical and sociological debates surrounding the shift from feudal economic systems to capitalism. Holton reviews competing theories, including the Dobb-Sweezy debate, to understand the drivers of this fundamental social transformation. It provides a clear overview of a complex historical process.

12. Marxism and Imperialism by V.G. Kiernan Kiernan investigates the Marxist theory of imperialism and its application to the history of colonial expansion. The book looks at the economic and political motivations behind empire-building and the consequences for colonized peoples. It is a critical historical analysis of the relationship between capitalism and global power.

13. The Custom-Made Child? edited by Helen B. Holmes This collection of essays explores the ethical, social, and legal implications of reproductive technologies and genetic engineering. Written from women-centered perspectives, it addresses issues of bodily autonomy and the potential commodification of life. The book tackles complex bioethical questions that remain relevant today.

14. Marxist Sociology Revisited edited by Martin Shaw This volume provides a critical reassessment of Marxist sociology in light of the social and political changes of the late 20th century. Contributors re-examine key concepts such as class, the state, and ideology to test their continuing validity. It offers a nuanced look at the relevance of Marxist analysis in the modern world.

15. Culture in Process by Alan R. Beals An introduction to cultural anthropology that focuses on the dynamics of change and adaptation within societies. Beals uses case studies to illustrate how cultures respond to internal and external pressures, from environmental shifts to social conflict. It emphasizes that culture is a fluid process rather than a static entity.

16. Anthropology and Anthropologists: The Modern British School by Adam Kuper Kuper provides a definitive history of British social anthropology from the 1920s to the 1970s. He profiles key figures like Malinowski and Radcliffe-Brown, tracing the rise and evolution of functionalism and structuralism. It is an essential history of the personalities and ideas that shaped the discipline.

17. Alienation by Bertell Ollman Ollman offers a thorough reconstruction of Marx's theory of alienation, exploring its philosophical roots and its central place in his critique of capitalism. The book analyzes how capitalist relations sever the connections between humans, their work, and their fellow beings. It is a deep philosophical study of a core Marxist concept.

18. A Theory of Criminal Justice by Hyman Gross This book presents a philosophical inquiry into the principles that should guide criminal law and punishment. Gross argues for a system based on culpability and the protection of individual rights, critiquing utilitarian approaches. It is a thoughtful examination of the moral foundations of the justice system.

19. Perspectives in Marxist Anthropology by Maurice Godelier A leading French anthropologist applies structural Marxist analysis to the study of pre-capitalist societies. Godelier examines the role of the economy, kinship, and ideology in tribal communities, challenging traditional economic determinism. The book represents a sophisticated synthesis of anthropology and Marxist theory.