Lévi-Strauss

By Olivier Dekens

A Masterful Exploration of the Life and Work of Claude Lévi-Strauss

In this comprehensive and engaging biography, Olivier Dekens delves into the life and work of Claude Lévi-Strauss, one of the most influential anthropologists of the 20th century. Dekens provides a detailed account of Lévi-Strauss's intellectual development, from his early studies in philosophy and sociology to his groundbreaking contributions to structural anthropology.

A Pioneering Anthropologist

Claude Lévi-Strauss was born in Brussels, Belgium, in 1908. He studied law and philosophy at the University of Paris, where he was influenced by the work of Marcel Mauss and Émile Durkheim. After completing his studies, Lévi-Strauss traveled to Brazil, where he conducted fieldwork among the Nambikwara people. This experience profoundly impacted his thinking and led him to develop his structuralist approach to anthropology.

Structural Anthropology

Structural anthropology is a method of analyzing social and cultural phenomena by identifying the underlying structures that organize them. Lévi-Strauss argued that these structures are not simply the product of human consciousness but are rather part of the human mind's innate cognitive processes. He applied this approach to a wide range of topics, including kinship, mythology, and ritual.

Lévi-Strauss's Influence

Lévi-Strauss's work has had a profound impact on anthropology and other social sciences. His structuralist approach has been used to analyze a wide range of phenomena, from language and art to politics and religion. Lévi-Strauss's work has also been influential in the development of post-structuralism and other critical theories.

A Must-Read for Anthropologists and Social Scientists

Olivier Dekens's biography of Claude Lévi-Strauss is a must-read for anthropologists and social scientists. Dekens provides a comprehensive and engaging account of Lévi-Strauss's life and work, making this book an essential resource for anyone interested in the history of anthropology and the development of social theory.

Additional Features

In addition to the main text, this book includes a number of additional features, including:

• A detailed chronology of Lévi-Strauss's life and work
• A glossary of key terms
• A comprehensive bibliography of Lévi-Strauss's writings
• An index

These features make this book an even more valuable resource for students and scholars of anthropology and social science.

Order Your Copy Today!

Lévi-Strauss is a must-read for anyone interested in the life and work of one of the most influential anthropologists of the 20th century. Order your copy today and start exploring the fascinating world of structural anthropology!