Anthropological Theory for the Twenty-First Century: A Critical Approach

Review
"This anthology offers a long-overdue and much-needed approach that takes its readers beyond canonical formulations and uses of theory. The volume remaps anthropology in a way that challenges dominant hierarchies of knowledge and the accompanying divisions of intellectual labor. How refreshing it is to encounter such diverse engagements with theory in its multiple modalities over historical time and transnational space." -- Faye V. Harrison, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
"How shall we create anew the anthropological canon? In this thoughtful and thorough volume, the reader is welcomed into a project of doing just that – of reading, rethinking, and provoking. Alternately serious and playful, the editors reassemble anthropology to acknowledge history and meet the needs of the present. A commitment to honesty and responsibility in representing what anthropology was, is, and can be. " -- Carole McGranahan, University of Colorado
"Finally, a comprehensive survey of the rich and diverse anthropological canon. In this book, the editors decolonize anthropological theory and update it for the twenty-first century. We now have a new standard for a more inclusive and complete survey of anthropological theory that demonstrates the discipline’s depth, breadth, and diversity." -- Lee D. Baker, Duke University
Anthropological Theory for the Twenty-First Century presents a critical approach to the study of anthropological theory for the next generation of aspiring anthropologists. Through a carefully curated selection of readings, this collection reflects the diversity of scholars who have long contributed to the development of anthropological theory, incorporating writings by scholars of color, non-Western scholars, and others whose contributions have historically been under-acknowledged. The volume puts writings from established canonical thinkers, such as Marx, Boas, and Foucault, into productive conversations with Du Bois, Ortiz, Medicine, Trouillot, Said, and many others. The editors also engage in critical conversations surrounding the "canon" itself, including its colonial history and decolonial potential.
Updating the canon with late twentieth-century and early twenty-first-century scholarship, this reader includes discussions of contemporary theories such as queer theory, decolonial theory, ontology, and anti-racism. Each section is framed by clear and concise editorial introductions that place the readings in context and conversation with each other, as well as questions and glossaries to guide reader comprehension. Adynamic companion website features additional resources, including links to videos, podcasts, articles, and more.