Between One and One Another [Hardcover]

Michael Jackson extends his path-breaking work in existential anthropology by focusing on the interplay between two modes of human existence: that of participating in other peoples lives and that of turning inward to ones self. Grounding his discussion in the subtle shifts between being acted upon and taking action, Jackson shows how the historical complexities and particularities found in human interactions reveal the dilemmas, conflicts, cares, and concerns that shape all of our lives. Through portraits of individuals encountered in the course of his travels, including friends and family, and anthropological fieldwork pursued over many years in such places as Sierra Leone and Australia, Jackson explores variations on this theme. As he describes the ways we address and negotiate the vexed relationships between I and wethe one and the manyhe is also led to consider the place of thought in human life.

Michael Jacksonis Distinguished Visiting Professor of World Religions at Harvard Divinity School. His many anthropological books includeExistential AnthropologyandThe Palm at the End of the Mind.

Between One and One Anotheris a lively and fascinating exploration of the interplay between being a part of the lives of others, and being apart from them. Michael Jackson, one of the leading and most innovative anthropologists today, draws on a wealth of anthropological, literary, philosophical, and autobiographical resources to make his case on the matter. It's clear that a lifetime of learning and reflection has gone into the thoughts invested in this text. Robert Desjarlais, author ofCounterplay: An Anthropologist at the Chessboard