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Mary Douglas

Purity and Danger: An Analysis of Concepts of Pollution and Taboo

"Purity and Danger: An Analysis of Concepts of Pollution and Taboo" by Mary Douglas is a seminal work in the field of anthropology and cultural studies. First published in 1966, the book explores the concepts of purity, danger, pollution, and taboo in various cultures and societies, and how these concepts shape and define social behaviors and norms. Douglas argues that the concepts of purity and danger are not universal, but rather are constructed and defined by each culture and society. She examines how these concepts are used to create boundaries and distinctions between what is considered clean, pure, and sacred, and what is considered dirty, impure, and profane. The book also explores how these concepts are used to regulate social behaviors and maintain social order. One of the key ideas in the book is Douglas' concept of "matter out of place," which refers to anything that is considered to be in the wrong place and therefore poses a threat to the social order. Douglas argues that this concept is central to understanding the ways in which cultures and societies define and regulate purity and danger. The book is divided into three parts, each of which focuses on a different aspect of the concepts of purity and danger. Part one examines the ways in which these concepts are used to create and maintain social boundaries. Part two explores the relationship between purity and danger and the body, and part three examines the ways in which these concepts are used in religious rituals and practices. "Purity and Danger" is a groundbreaking work that has had a significant impact on the fields of anthropology, sociology, and cultural studies. Douglas' insights and analyses continue to be relevant and influential today, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the ways in which cultures and societies define and regulate purity and danger...