An overview of the discipline, written by medical anthropologists of international stature.Examines the intellectual traditions from which medical anthropology emerged 30 years ago.Includes case studies from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States.Also provides thematic perspectives, considering gender and politics in relation to medical anthropology.
How has medical anthropology developed since the first manuals were published in the United States nearly thirty years ago? Rejecting a linear history in favor of a more kaleidoscopic approach, Medical Anthropology: Regional Perspectives and Shared Concerns explores the answers to this question by examining the multiplicity of intellectual traditions from which it emerged. Taking a closer look at the paths charted by medical anthropologists in Europe and the Americas, this volume offers the reader an overview of the contemporary intellectual landscape of the discipline, as well as insight into its traditions.This carefully structured volume is written by medical anthropologists of international stature, many of whom have been instrumental in defining the field and charting its course. Part One of this collection looks at medical anthropology in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Brazil; Part Two explores the European traditions of the field; and Part Three provides two case studies that examine medical anthropology thematically rather than regionally. Finally, Margaret Lock’s conclusion to this text considers the history of medical anthropology from a new perspective, pinpointing the elements of convergence beyond its local expressions.
How has medical anthropology developed since the first manuals were published in the United States nearly thirty years ago? Rejecting a linear history in favor of a more kaleidoscopic approach, Medical Anthropology: Regional Perspectives and Shared Concerns explores the answers to this question by examining the multiplicity of intellectual traditions from which it emerged. Taking a closer look at the paths charted by medical anthropologists in Europe and the Americas, this volume offers the reader an overview of the contemporary intellectual landscape of the discipline, as well as insight into its traditions.This carefully structured volume is written by medical anthropologists of international stature, many of whom have been instrumental in defining the field and charting its course. Part One of this collection looks at medical anthropology in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Brazil; Part Two explores the European traditions of the field; and Part Three provides two case studies that examine medical anthropology thematically rather than regionally. Finally, Margaret Lock’s conclusion to this text considers the history of medical anthropology from a new perspective, pinpointing the elements of convergence beyond its local expressions.
"This fascinating and important collection highlights thedifferences and similarities of recent intellectual traditionswithin the field of Medical Anthropology as articulated in elevendifferent countries in the Americas and Europe. It is essential forunderstanding what the contemporary field is."
Peter J. Brown, Professor of Anthropology and Global Health,Emory University
"The editors have done excellent work in bringing together thedifferent visions of so many renowned experts in the field."
Medische Anthropologie: Tidschrift over GezondheidCultuur
"In an excellent conclusion, Lock considers medicalanthropology's new location in society's bodies, whilstit de-essentializes both body and culture." Journal ofAnthropological Research
Peter J. Brown, Professor of Anthropology and Global Health,Emory University
"The editors have done excellent work in bringing together thedifferent visions of so many renowned experts in the field."
Medische Anthropologie: Tidschrift over GezondheidCultuur
"In an excellent conclusion, Lock considers medicalanthropology's new location in society's bodies, whilstit de-essentializes both body and culture." Journal ofAnthropological Research