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Essay / Research Paper Abstract
This 5 page paper examines Mary Douglas' well known volume that looks at the concept of cleanliness as well as other issues such as the relevance of magic. Bibliography lists 1 source.
Page Count:
5 pages (~225 words per page)
File: RG13_SA01135two.doc
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Unformatted sample text from the term paper:
of people live. Yet, Douglas (2002) takes this concept to new heights in her anthropological study. In her book Purity and Danger, Mary Douglas (2002) argues different points about a
variety of cultures as it respects cleanliness and taboo. The book begins with a look at ritual uncleanliness, and then secular defilement. In terms of uncleanliness, Douglas addresses issues of
pollution (Douglas, 2002). The author goes on to explore various subjects in the chapters entitled "The Abominations of Leviticus," and "Magic and Miracle." In "The Abominations of Leviticus," for example,
it is noted that pollution must be addressed in the context of the total picture (Douglas, 2002). Then, primitive worlds, boundaries, and a look at the system is taken. That
purity is central to many cultures in the world, and through a variety of time frames, is the main focus of this book. Further, the author illustrates her thesis with
a great deal of support. That the theme of purity exists in many cultures throughout history helps to cement the thesis. That
is, Douglas (2002) sees this premise as important, but it is the research and the provision of examples that provides evidence for her ideas. Some examples provided by the author
respect the Jewish dietary traditions as well as ideas about sexuality and cleanliness (Douglas, 2002). Most people are aware that the Jewish dietary laws involve not eating certain animals because
they are considered unclean. The foreskin of the male human being is also considered not clean and should therefore be removed, something that has evolved into the tradition of ritual
circumcision. In addition to giving the reader compelling evidence to support her claims, Douglas (2002) suggests that there are three eras that
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