Can someone recommend a good introductory text to Anthropology?

Question

Just something that outlines the basic concepts and gives a flavour for the subject? I have a degree in Sociology and am kind of interested to find out more about Anthropology.

Many thanks

Answer 1

As far as general introductory texts go, I'd suggest "Anthropology" by Ember, Ember, and Peregrine. If I'm remembering right, this is one I've known to sometimes be used in intro courses.

Since you have a degree in sociology, maybe your interests in anthropology are inclined towards social/cultural anthropology? If that's the case there are also many books out there that are an introduction specifically to that subfield. However, I'd still suggest the text above because it discusses each subfield, emphasizing the holistic approach that is so important in anthropology. It really just covers all the bases.

--edit--

i just realized you used the spelling "flavour". you might be canadian, or you might be british (or something else). if you are british, anthropology in the uk is a lot different than that of the us and canada, in that it is usually specifically socio-cultural anthropology.

Answer 2

I just finished taking an Intro to Cultural Anthropology class, and I loved it! The book we used was called "Anthropology Matters" by Shirley A. Fedorak. The chapters are relatively short and very interesting. She uses very contemporary issues to discuss the topics in the book and analyzes them from an objective point of view. Also, the author is a former Canadian professor who has published more than once in the field of anthropology.

I recommend this book with my highest regard.

Also, you can search out some ethnographies  written about a specific subject that you have an interest in.