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Overview
“It is one of only a few studies to apply the results of surveys and interviews to form an analysis from a social perspective. It is also important because it reveals aspects of Bourdieu’s theories at an early stage.”—Choice
“The significance of Bourdieu’s work for American studies lies in his powerful argument about the social definitions of popular aesthetics. His insistence that even the most trivial photographs serve social functions can be extended beyond photography and, thus, should be of interest to any student of popular culture.”—American Quarterly
Synopsis
The everyday practice of photography by millions of amateur photographers may seem to be a spontaneous and highly personal activity. But France’s leading sociologist and cultural theorist shows that few cultural activities are more structured and systematic than photography.
Editorials
From the Publisher
"The book contains several elements by Bourdieu: an analysis of the role of photography in the family life of peasants and small-town and urban dwellers, and an exploration of the 'social definition of photography,' including a brief essay on how different classes and groups express their aesthetic worldview in response to different photographs and photographic styles. Additional chapters by Bourdieu's colleagues explore the sociology of the camera club, photographic practice and the fine arts, and the nature of photography as an occupation. . . . Sociologists interested in culture will learn a great deal about the operation of a peculiar and pervasive symbolic system from this book. Bourdieu's writing (as that of his colleagues) is intricate, complex, and intellectually rewarding."—American Journal of Sociology