In 'The Domestication of the Savage Mind,' Jack Goody explores the evolution of human thought and culture through the lens of literacy and oral traditions. He argues that writing has fundamentally transformed societies, shaping our cognitive processes and social structures. Goody unravels the contrast between 'savage' and 'civilized' minds, challenging preconceived notions about primitive and modern thinking. His analysis stretches across history, revealing how the adoption of literacy has influenced everything from governance to personal memory. This thought-provoking work raises questions about the future of communication and our understanding of intelligence in an increasingly digital world.
By Jack Goody
Published: 1977
"Language not only facilitates communication but also shapes the way we think, marking the distinction between the savage and the civilized mind."
Professor Goody's research in West Africa resulted in finding an alternative way of thinking about 'traditional' societies.
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“Language not only facilitates communication but also shapes the way we think, marking the distinction between the savage and the civilized mind.”
The Domestication of the Savage Mind
By Jack Goody
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Jack Goody (1919-2015) was a distinguished British social anthropologist and a prolific author, renowned for his groundbreaking studies on the relationship between culture and social organization. His notable works include "The Domestication of the Savage Mind," "The Interface between the Oral and the Written," and "The Theft of History." Goody's writing style is characterized by its clarity and analytical depth, often blending anthropological insights with historical and literary analysis. Through his work, he offered profound insights into the ways in which cultures interact and evolve, challenging prevailing academic paradigms.
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