Window on Humanity: A Concise Introduction to General Anthropology

Written by one of the prominent scholars in the field, this concise, up-to-date text provides a carefully balanced introduction to core topics in the four subfields of general anthropology—physical anthropology, archeology, linguistics, and cultural anthropology—as well as contemporary changes in the field. Since no single or monolithic theoretical perspective orients this book, instructors with a wide range of views and approaches can use it effectively. The combination of brevity and readability make Window on Humanity a perfect match for general anthropology courses that use readings or ethnographies along with a main text.

Conrad Phillip Kottak (A.B. Columbia, 1963; Ph.D. Columbia, 1966) is Professor and Chair of Anthropology at the University of Michigan, where he has taught since 1968. In 1991 he was honored for his teaching by the University and the state of Michigan. In 1992 he received an excellence in teaching award from the College of Literature, Sciences, and the Arts of the University of Michigan. Professor Kottak has done fieldwork in cultural anthropology in Brazil (since 1962), Madagascar (since 1966), and the United States. In current research projects, Kottak and his colleagues have investigated the emergence of ecological awareness in Brazil, the social context of deforestation in Madagascar, and popular participation in economic development planning in northeastern Brazil.