Brian Morris is an emeritus professor of anthropology whose work delves into folk taxonomy, ethnobotany, ethnozoology, religion, and symbolism. He has conducted fieldwork among South Asian hunter-gatherers and in Malawi, drawing from a diverse pre-academic career as a foundry worker, seaman, and tea planter. His writings explore the intricate connections between nature and human culture, concepts of the individual, and anarchist philosophy. Morris offers unique insights into how societies categorize the world and understand their place within it.
Exploring the nature of reality, the author critiques contemporary theories in anthropology, advocating for its recognition as a historical social science. He introduces the concept of "dialectical naturalism" or "evolutionary realism," emphasizing its significance in bridging anthropology with philosophical inquiry. This thought-provoking treatise challenges readers to reconsider how cultural constructs shape perceptions of reality, while also reviving an often-overlooked philosophical tradition.
The book explores the intricate and often ambivalent relationship between humans and animals throughout history. It delves into the emotional complexities that arise from this coexistence, highlighting the kinship and fundamental differences that define their interactions. By examining the dual nature of these feelings—both positive and negative—the narrative reveals how animals have simultaneously posed threats and evoked deep connections within human culture.
Focusing on the definitions of freedom, the book explores the life and thought of Bakunin, highlighting his significance as a political theorist. It emphasizes his commitment to uniting theory and practice within his anarchist philosophy. The portrayal of Bakunin reveals the monumental nature of his ideas and their enduring relevance in contemporary discussions on freedom and political theory.
"In this remarkable new book Brian Morris examines the lives, works and philosophy of three key thinkers in the field of modern ecology. Lewis Mumford, René Dubos and Murray Bookchin, Morris argues, all made hugely important contributions to thinking in the field, and have all equally been overlooked or misunderstood by their contemporaries and successors. In examining the concepts of organic or ecological humanism and social ecology as presented by Mumford, Dubos and Bookchin respectively, Professor Morris paves the way for fresh debate about the interaction between human beings and their environment, and, vitally, about what 'ecology, ' 'environmentalism' and 'conservation' actually mean and should seek to achieve in years to come. Essential reading for anyone with an interest or active role in ecology and its associate disciplines, Pioneers of Ecological Humanism is written in a clear and refreshingly direct style that will appeal to activists, academics and armchair ecologists alike."-- Résumé de l'éditeur
This is a comprehensive study of the varying conceptions of the human subject in the Western intellectual tradition. Although informed by an anthropological perspective, the author draws on material from all the major intellectual disciplines that have contributed to this tradition and offers biographical and theoretical vignettes of all the major Western scholars. By scrutinizing the classical texts of the Western tradition, he succeeds in delineating the differing conceptions of the human individual which emerge from these writings, and gives a guide to the most important ideas in Western cultural traditions.
Exploring the diverse relationships between humans and animals reveals significant cultural insights. While Western societies typically categorize animals as pets or food, this perspective neglects their various roles in medicine, folklore, and rituals. The book delves into these overlooked aspects, highlighting how animals contribute to social life and cultural practices beyond conventional views.
Exploring the intricate relationships between humans and insects, this book highlights the cultural significance of insects beyond mere pest control. It contrasts the extermination mindset prevalent in the developed West with the more nuanced and multifaceted interactions found in other cultures, showcasing how insects play vital roles in various societies. Through this lens, the work invites readers to reconsider the value and impact of insects within cultural contexts.
Focusing on the dual heritage of social anthropology, this comprehensive sequel critically examines the anthropological literature on religion from the past four decades. It highlights substantive ethnographic studies that blend interpretive understanding with a social scientific perspective, situating religion within its broader socio-historical context. By adopting a comparative approach, the book argues that religion is fundamentally a social institution, challenging the notion of viewing it merely as an ideological or symbolic system.
