Social Anthropology

Author: Riley
Edition: First Edition
Binding: Paperback
Number of Pages: 312
Release Date: 09-10-2017
EAN: 9780367475802
Languages: English

About the Book:
Robert Redfield is best remembered as an anthropologist, but his interdisciplinary work during his lifetime bridged sociology and anthropology. He infused anthropological practice with sociological theory and was instrumental in the establishment of social anthropology as a subfield. Redfield was one of the first Americans to dedicate himself to social anthropology, which had been predominantly shaped by British scholars.

A professor at the University of Chicago, Redfield’s work was deeply influenced by the sociological framework developed at the institution. He played a pivotal role in what has been termed the “second Chicago school of sociology.” This volume compiles Redfield's most significant contributions to social anthropology, which span the study of social change, peasant studies, and the comparative study of civilizations.

In the 1920s, sociology and anthropology were housed within the same department at the University of Chicago, allowing Redfield to engage with both disciplines. His key focus was on understanding social change, especially in urban areas experiencing rapid transitions, such as neighborhoods with newly arrived immigrant populations.

This book presents Redfield’s foundational contributions in three key areas: (1) The study of social change or modernization, (2) Peasant studies, and (3) The comparative study of civilizations. Through articles, book excerpts, and unpublished papers and letters, this volume traces Redfield's early influence on modernization theory and his groundbreaking work in interdisciplinary fields such as peasant studies and comparative civilizations. It offers a comprehensive exploration of an influential figure in anthropology and sociology.