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Under the Kapok Tree: Identity and Difference in Beng Thought (African Systems of Thought)
Under the Kapok Tree Identity and Difference in Beng Thought - African Systems of Thought Author:Alma Gottlieb In this companion volume to Parallel Worlds, Alma Gottlieb — explores ideology and social practices among the Beng people of Côte — d'Ivoire. Employing symbolic and postmodern perspectives, she highlights — the dynamically paired notions of identity and difference, symbolized by — the kapok tree planted at the center of every Beng villa... more »ge.
"This book merits a number of readings. . . . An experiment in
ethnography that future projects might well emulate." --Clarke K. Speed,
American Anthropologist
"[An] evocative, rich ethnography. . . . Gottlieb does anthropology a
real service." --Misty L. Bastian, American Ethnologist
"Richly detailed. . . . This book offers a nuanced descriptive analysis
which commands authority." --Elizabeth Tonkin, Man
"Exemplary. . . . Gottlieb's observations on identity and difference are
not confined to rituals or other special occasions; rather she shows
that these principles emerge with equal force during daily social life."
--Monni Adams, Journal of African Religion
"[An] excellent study." --John McCall, Journal of Folklore