Anthropology

by R. R. (Robert Ranulph) Marett

"Anthropology" by R. R. Marett is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This work explores the expansive field of anthropology, detailing the study of human evolution, society, culture, and the various factors influencing human development. Marett's examination is rooted in the principles of Darwinism, asserting the evolutionary connections shared among all forms of life, including humans. The opening of "Anthropology" presents the scope of anthropological study, highlighting the importance of understanding humans as both physical beings and carriers of complex social ideas over time and across varying environments. Marett emphasizes the necessity of a Darwinian perspective to appreciate human history fully, insisting that anthropology must not shy away from studying all aspects of human existence—past and present, civilized and savage. He articulates a vision of anthropology that seeks to encompass the entirety of human experience, insisting on a unified scientific approach to understanding mankind’s diverse social and cultural histories. The text lays the groundwork for detailed discussions on various topics, including the antiquity of man, race, social organization, and the influences of environment and language on human life.