Philip Carl Salzman

An ethnographer describes two of the studies he conducted, one working with a tribe of nomadic herders in the desert region of Baluchistan, and the other living with shepherds in the isolated regions of highland Sardinia. The book begins with an explanation of the nature of events, and how they arise from culture and then impact and redirect culture. The book then focuses on each community in detail, describing the geography and population of the area, its history, and then detailing several major events that had big impacts on the lives of the people in these social settings, indicating whether the events were recurring or single incidents and the ramifications of each one. The academic text concludes with a comparison of the two social groups, an explanation of why comparing ethnographic studies is so essential, and a defense of the anthropology of events as opposed to other accepted approaches.

The book is a dry read, but one should expect that, given the subject matter and the title and the opening pages. Although not long, it is very educational and just feels like you are reading a college text (which it is). For some readers, this will not be appreciated. If, however, you like stretching your mind and applying yourself to intellectual works now and again, even when your college days are far behind you, this is a nice small study to peruse (yes, this is a thinly veiled allusion to myself). The writing may not be gripping, but it is easy to read, and covers an interesting topic. I've only read a few ethnographic studies, but they fascinate me. I don't agree with all the arguments presented in the final chapter, but they are well argued. Overall, it is a solid book in its field, elaborating on material I don't often read, and therefore welcome.… (altro)