Guide to Moral Anthropology

Moral anthropology is a field of study that examines the ways in which moral values, beliefs, and practices are formed, expressed, and understood within different cultural contexts. It explores the intersection of culture, ethics, and human behavior, seeking to understand how moral systems are shaped by social, historical, and environmental factors. Moral anthropologists investigate the diversity of moralities across cultures, the role of moral norms in shaping social relationships, and the dynamics of moral decision-making.

Here is a list of some of the most relevant books in the field of moral anthropology:

FYI: If you buy any of these books by clicking on the link in this article, I will earn a commission through the Amazon Associates program.

Moral Anthropology: A Reader  by Didier Fassin (2014)

This comprehensive reader brings together key essays by renowned anthropologists, offering diverse perspectives on the intersection of culture, society, and morality. The collection covers a wide range of topics, from moral relativism to moral reasoning, and, therefore, provides a foundational understanding of moral anthropology.

Moral Anthropology: A Critique by Bruce Kapferer (2018):

In this critical examination of moral anthropology, the authors challenge prevailing theoretical assumptions and explore the complexities of moral judgment and behavior. Through case studies and theoretical reflections, they provide a thought-provoking critique that invites readers to reconsider established perspectives.

A Companion to Moral Anthropology edited by Didier Fassin (2015):

This comprehensive volume offers a multidimensional exploration of moral anthropology, featuring contributions from leading scholars in the field. It covers a wide range of themes, including moral subjectivity, ethics and power, and the intersection of morality with politics, religion, and law.

Engaging Evil: A Moral Anthropology by Arthur Kleinman and Peter J. Csordas (2022):

This book examines the concept of evil and its implications for moral anthropology. Drawing on diverse case studies, the authors explore how cultures and individuals grapple with moral responsibility, guilt, and the perpetration of harm.

Moral Engines: Exploring the Ethical Drives in Human Life edited by Webb Keane et al. (2017):

This anthology investigates the diverse ethical motivations that drive human behavior. Through ethnographic studies, the contributors examine the complex interplay between individual desires, cultural norms, and moral frameworks, in an effort to shed light on the dynamic nature of morality.

Ordinary Ethics: Anthropology, Language and Action by Michael Lambek (2010):

Lambek explores the everyday ethical practices and dilemmas that shape human interactions. Drawing on ethnographic examples, he demonstrates how moral values and norms are embedded in language, action, and social relationships.

Morality, Crisis and Capitalism: Anthropology for Troubled Times edited by Keith Hart and Mark B. S. Edwards (2022):

This anthology examines the relationship between morality, capitalism, and contemporary crises. It explores the moral dimensions of economic systems, ethical challenges in times of crisis, and the possibilities for alternative moral economies.

The Moral Economy by Samuel Bowles (2017):

This interdisciplinary work takes a close look at the intersection of economics and morality. It explores how economic systems and incentives shape moral behavior, challenging the assumption of a purely self-interested human nature.

The Anthropology of Morality by Monica Heintz (2021):

Heintz provides an accessible introduction to the field of moral anthropology, exploring the cultural, historical, and social factors that influence moral values and practices across diverse societies.

The Subject and Virtue: An Anthropology of Ethics and Freedom by James Laidlaw (2014):

Laidlaw offers a nuanced exploration of virtue ethics and its role in shaping moral subjectivities and freedoms. Through ethnographic examples, he examines the ways in which individuals engage with ethical values and strive for moral excellence.

FULL LIST ON MY AMAZON STOREFRONT!!!