Purity and Danger: An Analysis of Concepts of Pollution and Taboo (Routledge Classics) (Pelican S.)

by Professor Mary Douglas

Is cleanliness next to godliness? What does such a concept really mean? Why does it recur as a universal theme across all societies? And what are the implications for the unclean?

In Purity and Danger Mary Douglas identifies the concern for purity as a key theme at the heart of every society. In lively and lucid prose she explains its relevance for every reader by revealing its wide-ranging impact on our attitudes to society, values, cosmology and knowledge. This book has been hugely influential in many areas of debate – from religion to social theory. With a specially commissioned preface by the author which assesses the continuing significance of the work, this Routledge Classics edition will ensure that Purity and Danger continues to challenge, question and inspire for many years to come.

• ISBN10: 0415289955
• ISBN13: 9780415289955
• Publish Date: 12 September 2002 (first published 30 April 1970)
• Publish Status: Active
• Publish Country: GB
• Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Imprint: Routledge
• Format: Paperback
• Pages: 272
• Language: English

Reviews

[celinenyx]

Fascinating in its thesis that all societies are preoccupied with dirt and cleanliness. Especially her statement that our own ideas on cleanliness are arbitrary, and not based on an objective criterium of hygiene, is highly relevant and inviting.

On the other hand, I found the book to be quite the product of its time. Douglas for examples argues for using the term "primitive" when referring to cultures that are less technologically advanced. I wonder whether such an "us vs. them" mentality makes sense in this context, especially since many of the religions she discusses have been touched and influenced by Christianity. Where does one end, and the other begin? Are we not limiting our investigation by readily assuming an essential difference between the two?