For undergraduate upper-level courses in Anthropological Theory.

This highly readable treatment of anthropological theory discusses ideas in a conversational style accessible to undergraduates without oversimplifying the issues. It is unique in focusing on five key concepts-evolution, culture, structure, function, and relativism-placing these core ideas in the forefront to address the contributions of major theorists. It presents competing theoretical positions, engaging students in central debates in anthropology through time and exploring the implications of alternative perspectives.