Franz Boas

The Central Eskimo (eBook, ePUB)

With Maps and Illustrations of Tools, Weapons & People

• Format: ePub

Produktbeschreibung

In 'The Central Eskimo,' anthropologist Franz Boas presents a seminal work of ethnographic scholarship, offering an intricate portrayal of the lives, beliefs, and practices of the Inuit peoples of the Cumberland Sound and Davis Strait. With meticulous detail, Boas narrates his observations, enriched by a synthesis of data garnered from other explorers. His literary style is both descriptive and analytical, providing a comprehensive account of the Central Eskimo within the wider context of early anthropology and the emergent field of participant observation. This text holds its place as a crucial document in the history of ethnographic studies, paving the way for future research and analysis of indigenous Arctic cultures. Boas, often regarded as the 'father of American anthropology,' drew from his extensive fieldwork experience to compile this classic. His pioneering approach to cultural relativism and emphasis on the importance of considering the unique perspectives of the study subjects is manifest in this work. This academic orientation likely stemmed from his commitment to challenge the scientific racism of his time, advocating for the sophistication and uniqueness of each culture he studied. His empathy and scientific rigor shine throughout the narrative, solidifying his legacy as an advocate for the respect and appreciation of cultural diversity. 'The Central Eskimo' is an essential read for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the anthropological study of indigenous peoples and the foundational literature of the discipline. It not only provides rich ethnographic detail but also serves as a historical document, reflecting the evolution of anthropological thought and methodology. This book would highly benefit those seeking to understand the impacts of Boas's work on the contemporary appreciation of cultural variety and the field of anthropology at large.

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Produktdetails

• Verlag: DigiCat
• Seitenzahl: 344
• Erscheinungstermin: 14. Dezember 2023
• Englisch
• ISBN-13: 8596547753339
• Artikelnr.: 69547577

Autorenporträt

Franz Boas (1858-1942) was a giant in the field of anthropology and one of the most prominent scientists to shape the discipline into a rigorously practiced social science. Born and educated in Germany, where he earned a doctorate in physics, Boas's intellectual pursuits swiftly moved toward the study of cultures. He is often termed the 'Father of American Anthropology' for his significant contributions to the field, particularly in cultural relativism and scientific methodology. Boas emphasized the importance of collecting ethnographic data and was a staunch opponent to the prevailing notions of social Darwinism and scientific racism of his time. His work laid the foundation for rejecting broad racial categorizations of humanity and instead argued for the examination of individual cultures on their own terms. One of his notable publications, 'The Central Eskimo' (1888), is a seminal work encapsulating detailed observations of Inuit societies in the North American Arctic. This text is a clear reflection of Boas's dedication to immersive fieldwork and his methodological emphasis on participant observation as a technique to truly understand cultural practices and beliefs. The work continues to be referenced in discussions on ethnohistorical methodologies and the anthropology of circumpolar societies. Throughout his career, Boas also took active roles in academia, primarily teaching at Columbia University, where he influenced a generation of anthropologists with his progressive views on culture and humanity. His literary style is notable for its meticulous detail and its holistic approach to the study of human societies, qualities that have cemented his legacy in the annals of anthropological scholarship.