Book Reviews

“This book chronicles the life and political action of Franz Boas, a ground-breaking anthropologist whose work denied the notion of racial superiority and introduced the notion of cultural relativity. In addition, he was a fierce pacifist who opposed the entry of the United States into World War I, and organized a powerful organization protecting the free speech of those accused of left-wing sympathies. He was among the first to recognize the strength of a scientist speaking out on political issues. The book will appeal to those interested in issues of race relations and free speech, and those interested in the role of science and scientists in the larger society.” 

Cambridge Scholars Publishing 

“Boas, a German-American anthropologist dubbed the “father of American anthropology,” comes to life from 15 years of research by McGowan, who looks at Boas’s tenure at the Museum of Natural History and Columbia University, among other places. One of Boas’ students was Margret Mead. While not a household name, Boas was part of a February 7 Jeopardy clue about starting the Anthropology Department at Columbia in 1902 – the country’s first. McGowan examines the ground-breaking anthropologist’s denial of racial superiority in favor of cultural relativity. Boas opposed U.S. entry into WWI, organized a group protecting free speech, and was among the first proponents of scientists discussing political issues.” 

PR Newswire