The Rise of Anthropological Theory: A History of Theories of Culture

Rating:
Summary: The RAT is still a classic for a reason
Review: The RAT may have been published over 30 years ago, but it still remains one of the most comprehensive histories of anthropological theory. Harris starts at the beginning, tracing the development of social theory which would lead to the birth of anthropology. This is something that few book do any longer, and it is very helpful. Harris cannot be said to be objective though, and he tells you this is his introduction. He is out to show the history of anthropology as a develpoment of his theory of cultural materialism. This isn't really a setback though, at least he is honest with what he is doing. Overall, the RAT is more far-ranging and comprehensive than any other history of anthropology I have come across, and I have looked.