The Mind of Primitive Man

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Technical
  • ID: 9139
  • Added: 2025-12-23
  • Updated: 2025-12-23
  • Published: 1911-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

The Mind of Primitive Man is a collection of lectures delivered by Franz Boas, a renowned anthropologist, before the Lowell Institute in Boston and the National University of Mexico between 1910 and 1911. Boas's lectures present a radical departure from previous studies of societies, which he argues were largely subjective and based on the criteria of Western observers. He contends that each society and culture is the result of unique historical developments, and there is no such thing as a 'pure' race or a superior one./n/nThis landmark work challenges the prevailing notions of racial hierarchy and cultural superiority, advocating for a more nuanced and objective understanding of human societies. Boas's theories have had a profound impact on the field of anthropology and continue to influence contemporary discussions on race, culture, and society.

Reviews
EBSCO · 2025-12-23
appreciative 4.00

The book is noted for its emphasis on the problem of race and its significance during the 1930s and 1940s.

This review from EBSCO highlights the book's focus on the problem of race, which was particularly relevant during the 1930s and 1940s. The reviewer notes that the book presents the work of Boas' generation in comparative anthropology, making it a valuable resource for understanding the historical context and contributions of the field. The sentiment is one of appreciation for the book's historical significance and its role in shaping anthropological thought.


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    It presents the work of Boas' generation in comparative anthropology, with special emphasis upon the problem of race, which so beset the 1930's and 1940's.

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    It also gave me new insights into Boas's work

Amazon · John G · 2017-05-12
excellent 5.00

The reprint is excellent and well-received. The book is praised for its readability and objective analysis.

John G is highly enthusiastic about this reprint of 'The Mind of Primitive Man'. They find the book to be an excellent resource, particularly appreciating Boas' readable style and objective analysis. This reviewer highlights how the book provides new insights into Boas' work, making it a valuable read for those interested in anthropology. The overall sentiment is one of high praise and satisfaction with the content and presentation of the book.


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    Excellent reprint.

    He wrote in a very readable way, and gave one of the first objective analyses of the claimed evidence for ...

    It also gave me new insights into Boas's work

APA PsycNet · TL Bolton · 1912-01-01
respectful 4.50

The book is a collection of lectures that provide a critical look at primitive culture. The review is positive and appreciative of the book's content.

TL Bolton's review from 1912 is quite positive, highlighting the book's lectures as a critical examination of primitive culture. They appreciate the depth and insight provided by Boas' work, which was delivered before the Lowell Institute. This review suggests that the book is a significant contribution to the field of anthropology, particularly in its time. The sentiment is one of respect and admiration for the book's content and its impact.


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    Reviews the book, The Mind of Primitive Man by Franz Boas (1911).

    This book contains the lectures delivered by the author before the Lowell Institute and ...

    Reviews the book "The Mind of Primitive Man" by Franz Boas (1911).