New Lives for Old: Cultural Transformation–Manus, 1928-1953. By Margaret Mead. First Edition, First Printing. Morrow. New York, 1956.

American anthropologist Margaret Mead was arguably the most influential scholar in her field in the twentieth century. Her ethnographic works on cultures in the South Pacific were contentious then as they are today, but nonetheless they led to broader discussions about gender roles, sexuality, and culture. These conversations were advanced by Mead herself who was an effective science communicator, appearing on numerous radio and television programs to discuss her work throughout the 1960s and 70s. In New Lives for Old: Cultural Transformation–Manus, 1928 -1953, Mead revisits the Manus of New Guinea after decades of major cultural change. She describes how WWII and the inundation of Western culture and machinery resulted in profound changes in the Manus culture. The work is decidedly dated and so the language Mead uses is somewhat injurious. However, its core ideas about cultural influences brought on by colonial forces showcase an important point of study in the twentieth century.

This first edition, first printing is in very good condition. In the original cloth, very good with only bumping and rubbing to spine ends and corners, minor fading to edges, and minor soiling to back board. Text block fine. In the original dust jacket, very good with only small chips and creases to spine ends and corners and fading to spine.

A very good first edition by Margaret Mead.