The book offers a sophisticated overview of a vibrant area of anthropological research, presenting both a summary of existing knowledge and a forward-looking prospectus. It delves into contemporary themes and methodologies, highlighting the significance of this field in understanding human behavior and culture. Through clear writing, the author engages readers with insights that reflect the dynamic nature of anthropological inquiry today.
Humphrey and Laidlaw present a new and radical general theory of ritual by drawing on an ethnographically rich account of the ritual worship of the Jains of western India. Ritual, they argue, is not a logically separate type of activity, but rather a quality that can be attributed to a wide range of everyday activities. In exploring the issue of what is distinctive about actions which are ritualized, this book makes an ambitious and controversial contribution to social and religious anthropology.
This book offers a sophisticated overview of a vibrant area of anthropological research, providing both a summary of existing knowledge and a vision for future exploration. It highlights key themes and methodologies, making it an essential resource for scholars and students interested in contemporary anthropological studies. Through its clear writing, it aims to engage readers and encourage further inquiry into the field.