The Composition of Worlds: Interviews with Pierre Charbonnier

Philippe Descola's autobiographical reflection examines his intellectual career, central themes, and key questions in anthropological debates. He sheds light on the evolution of his thinking from structuralism to an anthropology beyond the human, critiques the modern separation between nature and society, and proposes four schemas for the 'composition of worlds' that characterize our ways of inhabiting the earth. The book is presented in the form of an extended conversation with Pierre Charbonnier and is both a lucid introduction to Descola's work and an impassioned plea for more accommodating ontologies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 13 October 2023
Publisher: John Wiley and Sons Ltd

In this captivating autobiographical reflection, the esteemed anthropologist Philippe Descola takes us on a journey through his intellectual career, delving into the core themes that have defined his work and the pivotal questions that have shaped anthropological debates over the past forty years. Hailing from the esteemed lineage of Lévi-Strauss, Descola embarked on an ethnographic expedition in the late 1970s, immersing himself among the Achuar people of the upper Amazon. His research aimed to unravel the intricate connections between native societies and their environment, shedding new light on the evolution of his thought from structuralism to an anthropology that transcends human boundaries.

Through his profound analysis, Descola challenges the modern dichotomy between nature and society, advocating for a holistic understanding of our world. In his seminal work, Beyond Nature and Culture, he presents a groundbreaking synthesis of human perspectives on non-human relationships, proposing four schemas that characterize our ways of inhabiting the earth: animism, naturalism, totemism, and analogism. This profound exploration of our relationship with the natural world offers a fresh perspective and invites us to reevaluate our place in the cosmos.

Presented in the form of an engaging conversation with Pierre Charbonnier, this book serves as both a clear introduction to the remarkable work of Philippe Descola and a passionate plea for ontologies that embrace the diversity of beings. It encourages us to broaden our horizons and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the intricate web of life that surrounds us. In conclusion, Philippe Descola's autobiographical reflection is a testament to his intellectual prowess and his unwavering commitment to exploring the boundaries of human understanding. Through his profound insights and innovative thinking, he has left an indelible mark on the field of anthropology, inspiring generations to come.

ISBN-13: 9781509555475