Culture and Communication: An Introduction

by James M. Wilce

Overview

James M. Wilce's new textbook introduces students to the study of language as a tool in anthropology. Solidly positioned in linguistic anthropology, it is the first textbook to combine clear explanations of language and linguistic structure with current anthropological theory. It features a range of study aids, including chapter summaries, learning objectives, figures, exercises, key terms and suggestions for further reading, to guide student understanding. The complete glossary includes both anthropological and linguist terminology. An Appendix features material on phonetics and phonetic representation. Accompanying online resources include a test bank with answers, useful links, an instructor's manual, and a sign language case study. Covering an extensive range of topics not found in existing textbooks, including semiotics and the evolution of animal and human communication, this book is an essential resource for introductory courses on language and culture, communication and culture, and linguistic anthropology.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781107031302
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	06/15/2017
Pages:	384
Product dimensions:	7.01(w) x 9.96(h) x 0.79(d)

About the Author

James M. Wilce is Professor of Anthropology at Northern Arizona University. He is the author of three books, Eloquence in Trouble (1998), Crying Shame (2008), and Language and Emotion (Cambridge, 2009). He is also the editor of Social and Cultural Lives of Immune Systems (2003) and the book series, Studies in Discourse and Culture (2005 to present).

Table of Contents

List of figures; List of tables; Preface; Acknowledgements; 1. Society, culture, and communication; 2. What is communication?; 3. Semiotics and sign types; 4. The structure of language; 5. Culture, society, communication, and language evolving; 6. Diverse languages and perspectives: communication, expression, and mind; 7. Researching communication and culture as a linguistic anthropologist; 8. Human social semiotics; 9. The communicative enactment and transmission of society and culture; 10. Cultures of performance and the performance of culture; 11. Globalization, media, and emotion talk; 12. Applying linguistic anthropology; Appendix. IPA and other specialized marks; Glossary; References.

Editorial Reviews

‘Culture and Communication is an excellent introduction to the contemporary focus in linguistic anthropology on semiotic approaches to language and other human sign systems. Among the many pedagogical features the exercises are particularly outstanding.’ Susan U. Philips, University of Arizona

‘James Wilce’s book is a captivating introduction to linguistic anthropology, which covers an impressive range of theoretical ground. It is written in a precise, clear, and highly personal language that students will appreciate and enjoy.’ Olga Solomon, University of Southern California

‘A superb introduction to contemporary linguistic anthropology - authoritative, wide-ranging, and engagingly written, with abundant, well-designed aids for teaching and learning at the beginning and end of each chapter.’ Alan Rumsey, Australian National University

From the Publisher