Purity and Danger: An Analysis of Concepts of Pollution and Taboo

by Professor Mary Douglas, Mary Douglas

Overview

Purity and Danger is acknowledged as a modern masterpiece of anthropology. It is widely cited in non-anthropological works and gave rise to a body of application, rebuttal and development within anthropology. In 1995 the book was included among the Times Literary Supplement's hundred most influential non-fiction works since WWII. Incorporating the philosophy of religion and science and a generally holistic approach to classification, Douglas demonstrates the relevance of anthropological enquiries to an audience outside her immediate academic circle. She offers an approach to understanding rules of purity by examining what is considered unclean in various cultures. She sheds light on the symbolism of what is considered clean and dirty in relation to order in secular and religious, modern and primitive life.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780415291057
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	09/05/2002
Series:	Mary Douglas: Collected Works
Pages:	202
Product dimensions:	5.44(w) x 8.50(h) x (d)
Lexile:	1230L (what's this?)

About the Author

Mary Douglas was one of the most distinguished anthropologists of modern times. Natural Symbols, another of her major works, is also available in Routledge Classics.

Table of Contents

Introduction; Chapter 1 Ritual Uncleanness; Chapter 2 Secular Defilement; Chapter 3 The Abominations of Leviticus; Chapter 4 Magic and Miracle; Chapter 5 Primitive Worlds; Chapter 6 Powers and Dangers; Chapter 7 External Boundaries; Chapter 8 Internal Lines; Chapter 9 The System at War with Itself; Chapter 10 The System Shattered and Renewed;

Editorial Reviews

'[A] classic book.' – New York Times

From the Publisher