Bronislaw Malinowski, one of the all-time great anthropologists, had a
talent for bringing together in single comprehension the warm reality of
human living with the cool abstractions of science. His pages have
become an almost indispensable link between the knowing of "exotic" and
remote people and theoretical knowledge about humankind.
This classic
volume first published in 1922 can be considered the founding document
of economic anthropology, and remains the best one to read. It
emphasizes the great significance of "primitive" economics by singling
out the notable exchange system of the Trobriand Islands for special
consideration. Although the main theme is economic, constant reference
is made to social organization, life and meaning, the power of magic,
and mythology and folklore.
Following Malinowski, we are soon
"paddling on the lagoon, watching the natives under the blazing sun at
their garden work, following them through the patches of jungle. And on
the winding beaches and reefs, we shall learn about their life." The
life we learn about is both Trobriand life in New Guinea as well as life
of common humanity.
For the last three decades, Waveland Press
has proudly made Malinowski's most famous ethnography available for
modern-day students and readers at a reasonable price. The handsome 2013
Enhanced Edition of this milestone of anthropological research and
interpretation has been visually enriched by the digital enhancement of
80 historic photographs and maps.
