Mary Douglas

Mary Douglas is one of the most important anthropologists of the 20th century, known for her work on classification and social life. This biography provides an introduction to her distinctive approach and its relevance to current social issues.

Format: Hardback
Length: 164 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2023
Publisher: Berghahn Books

This comprehensive and concise book delves into the life and work of Mary Douglas, one of the most influential anthropologists of the second half of the 20th century. Her groundbreaking research focused on the intricate processes by which human societies century. Her work explored how social groups classify one another and how they navigate the challenges and anomalies that arise from these classifications. Douglas argued that classification is not merely a theoretical concept but a deeply ingrained aspect of social life, playing a pivotal role in all profound and intractable human disputes.

This biography provides an insightful introduction to the development of Douglas's distinctive approach throughout her long and illustrious career. It sheds light on how her ideas have resonated with contemporary pressing issues of social conflict and planetary survival. From the Preface:

The profound influence of Professor Dame Mary Douglas (1921-2007) extends across numerous social sciences and numerous disciplines within the humanities. Her extensive body of work is also vast, presenting a challenge for readers seeking to gain a general understanding of her writings and their significance. However, for those who are somewhat perplexed about where to begin, our book offers a concise overview and highlights why her key works continue to hold immense importance today.

Dimension: 203 x 127 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800739796