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1931: The Making of Man: An Outline of Anthropology, edited by V.F. Calverton
“The Making of Man: An Outline of Anthropology,” edited by V.F. Calverton, is a comprehensive exploration into the study of anthropology during the early 20th century. Published in 1931, a period marked by significant scientific and cultural shifts, the book delves into various aspects of human evolution, cultural development, and the biological factors that have shaped humanity. Calverton, known for his intellectual rigor and interdisciplinary approach, compiles contributions from a range of experts in the field, making this work a substantial compilation of anthropological knowledge of the time. The book reflects the era’s perspectives and theories, offering insights into how early anthropologists viewed human development and the factors influencing it.
The book is notable for its attempt to synthesize a wide array of anthropological knowledge into a cohesive framework. Covering topics from the physical evolution of humans to the development of language, art, and social structures, it provides a panoramic view of human history from an anthropological perspective. The work stands as a testament to the intellectual curiosity and scholarly efforts of its era, offering a window into the methodologies and theoretical underpinnings of early 20th-century anthropology. For modern readers, “The Making of Man” serves not only as a historical piece but also as a tool for understanding the evolution of anthropological thought and its impact on our contemporary understanding of human history and culture.
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2003: Redesigning Society, by Russel L. Ackoff and Sheldon Rovin
“Redesigning Society” by Russel L. Ackoff and Sheldon Rovin, published by Stanford Business Books, offers a thought-provoking exploration of societal transformation. The book delves into the concept of redesigning society to address the complex challenges of the modern world. With a focus on systems thinking and problem-solving, the authors present innovative ideas and practical strategies for creating a more sustainable and equitable society.
The book’s 184 pages provide a concise yet comprehensive analysis, making it an invaluable resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in shaping a better future. This third printing, hardcover edition is in very good to fine condition, with only slight wear to the dust jacket. The book is well bound and features an owner’s signature on the front free endpaper, but no other writing or markings.
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2017 First Edition: Improbable Destinies: Fate, Chance, and the Future of Evolution, by Jonathan B. Losos
“Improbable Destinies: Fate, Chance, and the Future of Evolution”, written by Jonathan B. Losos and published by Riverhead Books in New York in 2017, is a thought-provoking exploration of the mechanisms that drive evolution. First edition, first printing with a full number line.
Losos delves into the fascinating world of evolutionary biology, examining how both fate and chance shape the future of life on Earth. With 366 pages of meticulously researched content, the book provides a comprehensive analysis of key themes such as adaptation, natural selection, and the role of contingency in evolutionary outcomes. “Improbable Destinies” is a valuable addition to any scientific library, offering readers a deeper understanding of the intricate processes that have shaped the diversity of life we see today. The book and dust jacket are in new condition.
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1991: A History of the Arab Peoples, by Albert Hourani
“A History of the Arab Peoples”, by Albert Hourani, is a comprehensive account of the Arab world from the rise of Islam to the late 20th Century. This presumed first edition, published by the Belcap Press of the Harvard University Press in Cambridge in 1991, spans 551 pages and provides a detailed exploration of the region’s political, social, and cultural history. Although some pre-Islamic history is included, the book primarily focuses on the impact of Islam on the Arab world and the subsequent developments that have shaped the region.
he book is new and has never been fully opened or read; there is slight foxing on the top page edges and fore-edges. -
1994: Borderwork: Feminist Engagements with Comparative Literature, ed. by Margaret R. Higonnet
Borderwork: Feminist Engagements with Comparative Literature is a groundbreaking anthology edited by Margaret R. Higonnet. Published in 1994, the book brings together a collection of essays that explore the intersection of feminism and comparative literature. With a focus on examining the boundaries and connections between different literary traditions, the contributors delve into topics such as gender, race, and cultural identity. This first edition book is a significant contribution to feminist literary criticism, offering insightful perspectives on the complexities of literature from a feminist lens. Whether you are a scholar, student, or simply interested in feminist literary theory, Borderwork is an essential read.
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1971: In The Shadow of Man, by Jane Lawick-Goodall
In The Shadow of Man, by Jane Lawick-Goodall, is a groundbreaking study of animal behavior that offers a compelling insight into the world of chimpanzees. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company in Boston in 1971, this 281-page book is a must-read for anyone interested in the natural world. The grey hardcover volume with lettering on the cover and spine is in very good condition, with some yellowing to the pages consistent with its age. The dust jacket shows considerable signs of wear, including tears and rubbing, but the book block is well-preserved.
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1967 The Naked Ape: A Zoologists Study of the Human Animal, by Desmond Morris, McGrawHill
The Naked Ape: A Zoologist’s Study of the Human Animal by Desmond Morris, first published in 1967. The book explores human behavior and society from a zoological perspective, examining the ways in which humans are similar to and different from other animals. Morris argues that humans are essentially animals, and that many of our behaviors and social structures can be explained by looking at our evolutionary history.
The book covers a wide range of topics, including human sexuality, aggression, communication, and culture. Morris uses examples from both human and animal behavior to illustrate his points, and he challenges many commonly-held beliefs about human nature. The Naked Ape was a controversial book when it was first published, but it quickly became a best-seller and has since become a classic of popular science writing.
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1978 People of the Lake: Mankind and its Beginnings, Richard E. Leakey, Roger Lewin
People of the Lake: Mankind and its Beginnings is a non-fiction book written by Richard E. Leakey and Roger Lewin. The book explores the origins of mankind and the evolution of human beings from their earliest beginnings. The authors draw on their extensive knowledge of anthropology and archaeology to present a comprehensive and engaging account of human evolution, from the emergence of the first hominids to the development of modern humans. The book is filled with photographs and illustrations that help to bring the story of human evolution to life.
The book is divided into several sections, each of which focuses on a different aspect of human evolution. The authors discuss the discovery of early hominid fossils, the development of stone tools, the emergence of language, and the spread of human beings across the globe. They also explore the social and cultural aspects of human evolution, including the development of art, religion, and music. Overall, People of the Lake is a fascinating and informative book that provides a detailed and engaging account of the origins of mankind.
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Margaret Mead: a Life, by Jane Howard, 1984, 1st edition
Margaret Mead: A Life provides a comprehensive and detailed account of the life and work of the renowned anthropologist, Margaret Mead. The book covers Mead’s childhood, education, and her groundbreaking research on sexuality, gender, and culture. Howard’s writing style is engaging and informative, and she uses a variety of sources to paint a vivid picture of Mead’s life and the cultural context in which she lived and worked. The book also includes old black and white photographs of Mead, which add to the overall experience of reading about her life.
Overall, Margaret Mead: A Life is a must-read for anyone interested in anthropology, gender studies, or the history of science. It provides a fascinating insight into the life of one of the most influential anthropologists of the 20th century and sheds light on the challenges and opportunities faced by women in academia during that time. Howard’s book is well-researched, well-written, and provides a valuable contribution to the field of anthropology.
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1969 Unveiling Man’s Origins: Ten Decades of Thought About Human Evolution, by L.S.B. Leakey and Vanne Morris Goodal
Unveiling Man’s Origins is a non-fiction book co-authored by L.S.B. Leakey and Vanne Morris Goodall. The book explores the history of human evolution and the various theories and discoveries that have shaped our understanding of our origins. The book covers ten decades of thought about human evolution, starting from the 1860s and the publication of Charles Darwin’s On the Origin of Species, up to the 1960s when the book was published.
The book is divided into chapters that cover different periods of time and different aspects of human evolution. It includes photographs and illustrations to help readers visualize the discoveries and theories discussed in the book. Unveiling Man’s Origins is a comprehensive and informative book that provides readers with a detailed understanding of the history of human evolution and the various scientific discoveries that have contributed to our knowledge of our origins.