The Andaman Islanders

Alfred Radcliffe-Brown (1881–1955) was a key British social anthropologist who is widely considered to be the founder of social functionalism. Originally published in 1922, and reprinted in this corrected form in 1933, this book was based upon fieldwork carried out by Radcliffe-Brown, alongside E. L. Grant Watson and Daisy Bates, in the Andaman Islands during the years 1906 to 1908. The text contains detailed information on various aspects of the indigenous cultures found on the Islands, with analysis of social organisation, ceremonial customs, myths, legends and religious beliefs. Illustrative figures are incorporated throughout, including numerous photographs, and appendices are provided on language and technology. This book will be of value to anyone with an interest in Radcliffe-Brown, the Andaman Islands and the development of anthropology.

Introduction; 1. The social organisation; 2. Ceremonial customs; 3. Religious and magical beliefs; 4. Myths and legends; 5. The interpretation of Andamese customs and beliefs: ceremonial; 6. The interpretation of Andamese customs and beliefs: myths and legends; Appendix A. The technical culture of the Andamese islanders; Appendix B. The Andaman languages; Index.