Featuring a collection of insightful, scholarly articles, Coming Full Circle: Rediscovering Ancient Wisdom for the Modern World through Cultural Anthropologyencourages students to think critically and challenge their views of "the modern world" and "indigenous societies." The text focuses on questioning Western cultural assumptions and recognizing the value of traditional societies. It also urges students to thoughtfully consider cultures in terms of sustainability and the well-being of their members.
The book is organized into eight chapters that each contain an introduction to the topic, key terms, thought exercises, and carefully selected readings. The initial chapter introduces students to the field of anthropology and discusses why it's studied and how it applies to our daily lives. Additional chapters explore our place in the environment, social organization and identity, belief systems and rituals, and the factors that influence peace and violence. Students learn about health and well-being, science and traditional wisdom, and social movements that propel us forward.
Designed to introduce students to the discipline through an enlightening exploration of culture, Coming Full Circle is an exemplary resource for foundational undergraduate courses in anthropology.
Kristi Arford is a professor of anthropology and the chairperson of the Behavioral Sciences Department at Northern Essex Community College, where she teaches courses in cultural anthropology, sociology, archaeological site explorations, sex and gender, and world religions. She also teaches cultural anthropology courses at North Shore Community College. Professor Arford earned her master's degree in anthropology from New Mexico State University.