Brian Moeran Book order

Ethnography in the Raw describes the author's encounters with the Philippine family into which he has married, his wife's friends and acquaintances, and their lives in a remote rural village in the rice basin of Luzon, about 130 miles northeast of Manila. The book links detailed descriptions of his Philippine family with cultural practices such as circumcision, marriage and cockfights combined with theoretical musings on the concepts of sacrifice, social exchange, patron-client relations, food, and religious symbolism. It is both anthropological fieldwork 'in the raw, ' and an incisive analysis of contemporary Philippine society and culture.

This textbook offers a theoretical framework for understanding creative and cultural industries, influenced by Richard Caves, Howard Becker, and Pierre Bourdieu. It provides an accessible exploration of these industries, featuring case studies and examples from Japan, South Korea, and China, which highlight the unique characteristics and dynamics of the region's cultural landscape.

Through two decades of ethnographic research, Brian Moeran explores how fashion magazines enchant their audiences by employing techniques reminiscent of ancient magical and religious rituals. He delves into the interplay between anthropological theory and the cultural practices within the fashion industry, revealing the underlying mechanisms that create allure and influence among readers.

Exploring the history of Japanese whaling, this comprehensive account delves into the cultural significance of whaling practices and their impact on local communities. It examines the organizational structure of whaling operations, the influence of whaling companies on economies, and the whale's role in community identity through rituals and traditions. Additionally, the book addresses broader political and environmental concerns related to whaling, highlighting the tensions between cultural heritage and contemporary challenges.

The author, a prominent scholar in creative industries, redefines the concept of creativity within the business context. The book explores how collaboration among individuals, institutions, and technologies contributes to creative processes and the generation of value, offering fresh insights into the dynamics of creative work.

Offering a vibrant glimpse into rural Japan, this account blends personal journal entries with ethnographic insights gathered over four years of fieldwork. It explores the complex social dynamics among the valley's inhabitants and the anthropologist's interactions with them. Through sensitive observations, the narrative delves into cultural nuances, revealing the rich tapestry of relationships and moral considerations that shape life in this unique setting.

Focusing on the author's immersive experience, the narrative explores the inner workings of a Japanese advertising agency through participant observation. It delves into the cultural dynamics, work practices, and social interactions within the agency, offering insights into the complexities of the advertising industry in Japan. The book emphasizes the importance of ethnography in understanding workplace culture and the unique challenges faced by employees in a fast-paced environment.

Exploring the intersection of anthropology and business, Brian Moeran conducts a comprehensive study of Japan's cultural production and creative industries. His participant-observation reveals how social structures significantly shape business practices, challenging the notion that culture alone drives behavior. Moeran advocates for a deeper engagement with ethnography in business studies, urging anthropologists to expand their research beyond conventional sites. This work serves as a vital call to rethink the application of anthropological methods in understanding contemporary business dynamics.

Through its artful engagement with consumers, advertising subtly shapes our everyday worlds. It plays upon powerful emotions -- envy, fear, lust and ambition. But the industry itself is far more subtle and complex than many people might assume.

Focusing on the social practices and cultural attitudes surrounding media consumption, this book explores the experiences of individuals in Japan, China, Taiwan, Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore, and India. It delves into how people engage with various forms of media, offering insights into the diverse cultural landscapes and the significance of media in shaping societal norms and behaviors across these regions.