New Directions in Anthropological Kinship is an important, expansive, and provocative collection of essays that simultaneously demonstrates both the vitality and promise of the reconstituted field of kinship studies as well as the intellectual value of a broadly defined anthropology. The contributors present a good deal of original research in highly accessible prose, and analyze topics ranging from the history ... Read moreof kinship studies, primate kinship, and problems with mothers-in-law, to discourses of genetic counseling, post-divorce parenting, open adoption, and the gender(ed) and class politics of kinship in nation-states. This fine book will be of interest to seasoned anthropologists and to students at all levels.
Michael G. Peletz, Colgate University Bravo for this treasure trove of a collection, in which kinship is not only alive and well but teeming with new possibilities. From Mayan glyphs in early Mexico to genetic counseling sessions in contemporary Sweden, from activist women's associations in Mali to part-time parenting families in Massachusetts, the anthropological investigation of the shape, origins and meanings of kinship has never been more vigorous.
Alma Gottlieb, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign Linda Stone, in New Directions in Anthropological Kinship, has extended contemporary kinship-based debates by demonstrating the importance and timeliness of kinship studies. New Directions is an important addition to the literature for anyone interested in following the inherently interesting trajectory of the recently resuscitated kinship studies.
Heléna Ragoné, author ofSurrogate Motherhood: Conception in the Heart and Reproducing Reproduction: Kinship, Power, and Technological Innovatio The essays collected in this volume offer rich testimony to the several and diverse directions kinship studies have taken in anthropology, especially under the influence of feminist thought. One of its special features is its coverage of anthropology quite generally. Its publication will surely stimulate more lively discussion of a wide range of issues.
Harold W. Scheffler, Yale University A good introduction to the current status of kinship studies.
American Anthropologist
This is a valuable volume for the range of perspectives and subject-matter on offer with respect to a subject, kinship, that has once again become a core topic in anthropology. Not only fellow professionals, but also the more advanced students will benefit from it.
Journal Of The Royal Anthropological Institute
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