Customer Reviews

Visions of Culture: An Introduction to Anthropological Theories and Theorists

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"Visions of Culture" is an essential book for any student of anthropology. It would be wrong to consider this book a textbook though. It is more of a reference on specific theorists. What Moore does is to write concise, informative chapters on each of the major anthropological theorists. He begins with biographical data, and goes on to discuss their theories. It is an indispensible reference for the student of culture. I reference it more than any other individual anthropology book.

This book deserves not only a glowing review, but a sincere "Thank YOU" from any and all Anthro. grads/professionals from here on. A 'Thank you' for bringing together in one succinct work, all the major pillars of the history of anthropological theory and method that every undergrad and grad have always longed for and needed. It is clear, concise, ease to read, to the point, and informational. I honestly don't see how it could be improved; even the typeset used makes it physically ease to read. It makes one wonder, Why did it take until now for someone to put such a clear and comprehensive work together?? I agree with the previous reviewers, when I need a refresher or have shemefully forgetten something that about our chosen profession's foundational men and women, I go back and reread this book. I always find what I'm looking for, whether it be the actual information or a pointed and easy to find reference for further research. When i was in grad school in the mid 90s, I'd have paid 75-80 bucks for this book!! Hell, I spent that much in copier fees just collecting what others had said like Professor Moore, but not put in one book! Thank you Professor Moore...for going on that retreat which provided the idea for the book, the same retreat that Professor X apparently thought he/she was too good for. :-)

I would also recommend, Stanley R. Barrett's "Anthropology: A Student's Guide to Theory and Method" as a companion to this work. Barrett's is not in the same format but still a great reference for the field as a whole.

This book is a well written, interesting summary of the historical development of anthropology. It is a good resource book since you can look up individual anthropologists and find a short history of their work and an explanation of their contributions to anthropology. I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in seeing the big picture of anthropology.

This was first required as an undergrad for a theory class. It has become a wonderful refrence that I use often as a graduate student. It is clear, presise, organized, and to the point on all the major theorists of anthropology. Whenever I forget who did what, or what major contribution someone made, this is a wonderful refrence! My only suggestion: I wish they would publish a new edition to include more "modern" theorists.

This book was purchased new and was delivered quickly, and without any damage even though it is a fairly heavy book.