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Ruth Benedict

Patterns of Culture

Ruth BenedictNonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1934

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Book Brief

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Ruth Benedict

Patterns of Culture

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1934
Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Southwestern United States • 1930s

Publication Year

1934

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Patterns of Culture by Ruth Benedict explores how different societies develop distinct cultural patterns that shape individual behaviors and attitudes. Examining the Zuñi, Dobuans, and Kwakiutl cultures, Benedict argues that these patterns, akin to personality types, influence societal norms. By advocating cultural relativism, Benedict challenges ethnocentric views and underscores the importance of understanding and respecting diverse cultural expressions.

Informative

Contemplative

Inspirational

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

4.2

1,736 ratings

66%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Ruth Benedict's Patterns of Culture is praised for its pioneering approach in anthropology, highlighting cultural relativism and the diversity of human societies. Critics appreciate its accessible writing and profound insights. However, some argue it oversimplifies complex cultures and relies too heavily on a limited number of case studies.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Patterns of Culture?

A reader with an interest in cultural anthropology and human behavior would enjoy Ruth Benedict's Patterns of Culture. Comparable to Margaret Mead's Coming of Age in Samoa and Clifford Geertz's The Interpretation of Cultures, this book appeals to those fascinated by the diversity of cultural practices and the underlying psychological foundations.

4.2

1,736 ratings

66%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Southwestern United States • 1930s

Publication Year

1934

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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