Why Humans Have Cultures Explaining Anthropology and Social Diversity [Paperback]

Why Humans Have Culturesexamines three basic questions: what unity underlies human cultural diversity? What are the origins of that diversity? How can we understand it? The author argues that it is the ways in which people interact--rather than technological advances--that have been of crucial importance in human history. In this thought-provoking book, Carrithers draws on ancient and contemporary examples to show how this perspective forms a solid foundation for the study of culture, society, and history.

A stimulating contribution to the debate on the nature of human nature --extremely well-presented. --William Lipe,Washington State University

...presents a complex problem in an entertaining, but lucid format. --Greg Campbell,University of Montana

[An] excellent discussion of questions basic to anthropology. --Daniel Amos,Pacific University