The Logic of Writing and the Organization of Society by Jack Goody

The Logic of Writing and the Organization of Society by Jack Goody

This book assesses the impact of writing on human societies, both in the Ancient Near East and in twentieth-century Africa, and highlights some general features of social systems that have been influenced by this major change in the mode of communication. Such features are central to any attempt at the theoretical definition of human society and such constituent phenomena as religious and legal systems, and in this study Professor Goody explores the role of a specific mechanism, the introduction of writing and the development of a written tradition, in the explanation of some important social differences and similarities. Goody argues that a shift of emphasis from productive to certain communicative processes is essential to account adequately for major changes in human societies. Whilst there have been previous descussions of the effect of literacy upon social organisation, no study has hitherto presented the general synthesis developed here.

'This is a stimulating, thought-provoking book, full of insights which make one think about a whole range of material in a different wayRisky? Yes. Flawed? Probably. Necessary? Undoubtedly.' The Times Higher Education Supplement
'The four major chapters are densely packed with details and comparisons. They attest to Goody's rich learning, and they have much to tell readers.' American Anthropologist

SKU	Unavailable
ISBN 13	9780521339629
ISBN 10	0521339626
Title	The Logic of Writing and the Organization of Society
Author	Jack Goody
Series	Studies In Literacy The Family Culture And The State
Condition	Unavailable
Binding Type	Paperback
Publisher	Cambridge University Press
Year published	1986-12-18
Number of pages	232
Cover note	Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary.