Books by Alan (University of Edinburgh) Barnard

An overview of anthropological theory covering the historical contexts of the great debates.

A fascinating account of the major groups of southern African hunter-gatherers, covering everything from prehistory to social development, from the languages Bushmen speak to current politics. It will appeal to those working in a range of academic fields, as well as anyone interested in learning more about hunter-gatherers.

While no direct evidence for the origin and evolution of language exists, Barnard looks to the present to explain the past, focussing on how modern hunter-gatherers, as non-literate people, use and perceive language. This fascinating book will be welcomed by all those interested in the evolution of language.

Symbolic thought is fundamental to human existence. If social anthropology cannot explain it, what can? Alan Barnard applies ideas from social anthropology to questions being explored in archaeology, linguistics, genetics and neuroscience, considering the explosion of art, religion and language that lies at the heart of what makes us human.

The study of human origins is one of the most fascinating branches of anthropology, yet it has rarely been considered by social anthropologists. This powerful study aims to bridge this gap, addressing the fundamental questions surrounding human evolution from the perspective of social anthropology.

A detailed study of the Khoisan, the cluster of southern African peoples which include the Bushmen, the Khoekho and the Damara.