Daniel G. Brinton 
Anthropology 
As a Science and as a Branch of University Education in the United States

Daniel G. Brinton’s book ‘Anthropology’ provides an in-depth exploration of the field of anthropology, focusing on the study of human societies, cultures, and their development over time. Brinton’s writing style is scholarly and informative, offering a comprehensive overview of key anthropological concepts and theories. The book delves into the historical context of the discipline, tracing its evolution from its roots in the 19th century to modern day practices. Brinton’s thorough examination of various anthropological perspectives and methodologies offers readers a valuable insight into the complexities of human society and culture. Daniel G. Brinton, a renowned American anthropologist and scholar, was a pioneer in the field of anthropology. His extensive research and contributions to the discipline have shaped contemporary understandings of human culture and society. Brinton’s expertise and passion for anthropology are evident in the detailed analysis and thoughtful commentary found in ‘Anthropology’. His scholarly approach reflects a deep understanding of the subject matter and a commitment to advancing anthropological knowledge. I highly recommend ‘Anthropology’ to readers interested in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the field of anthropology. Brinton’s expert insights and engaging writing style make this book a valuable resource for students, academics, and anyone interested in exploring the complexities of human society and culture.

About the author

Daniel Garrison Brinton (1837-1899) was a prominent American archaeologist and ethnologist, recognized for his extensive work in the field of anthropology. Trained as a physician, Brinton served as a surgeon during the Civil War, but his interests shifted as he delved into the study of human cultures and languages. After the war, he actively pursued a career in anthropology, which was then an emerging field. Brinton’s scholarly contributions are evident in his works, including the influential ‘Anthropology’ published in 1890, where Brinton challenged the racial theories of the time and emphasized cultural processes in human development. His other notable works include ‘The Myths of the New World’ (1868), where he systematically compared the mythologies of various indigenous cultures of the Americas, and ‘The American Race’ (1891), in which he argued for a singular origin of indigenous American peoples, a hypothesis debated among his contemporaries. Brinton’s academic endeavors were recognized through his appointment as Professor of American Archaeology and Linguistics at the University of Pennsylvania, and his leadership as president of various learned societies. His literary style often involved a thorough and comparative analysis of linguistic and cultural data, pioneering methods that would later be foundational to modern anthropology. Despite some of his theories being contested or deemed outdated by later scholars, Brinton’s impact on the establishment of anthropology as a scientific discipline is significant.