Positives While the provided review is largely critical, it does describe the book as a work of anthropology, specifically from the late 19th to early 20th century. This historical focus might appeal to readers with a particular interest in the origins and evolution of anthropological thought. The book's content, which explores the study of indigenous cultures to draw conclusions about 'civilized' human society, could also serve as a primary source for those studying the historical methodologies and perspectives within the field.
Negatives However, the book is heavily criticized for being misleading regarding its genre and theme. The reviewer expected a work on sociology and themes of generational legacy but found it to be a dated anthropological text. This early 20th-century anthropological approach is described as problematic, as it frames indigenous tribes as 'savages' to be studied for insights into 'civilized' society. The reviewer found the book to be boring, tedious, and completely outdated, ultimately feeling it was a waste of both time and money.
Conclusion Overall, the book appears to be a highly niche read, particularly for those with specific academic interests. It is not recommended for general readers seeking contemporary sociological insights or discussions on themes of legacy, as it failed to meet these expectations for the reviewer. Instead, this book might best serve students or researchers specifically focused on the historical development of anthropology, or those critically examining early 20th-century academic approaches to indigenous cultures. It is important for potential readers to be aware of its historical context and potentially problematic perspectives before engaging with it.
