The Body: Social Process and Cultural Theory

Traditionally the social sciences have worked within dichotomies which have profoundly influenced Western thought: body//soul and naturelture. Whereas anthropology has recognised the importance of human bodies, sociology has tended to treat the individual as a disembodied decision-making agent. Yet contemporary societies exhibit a profound concern over bodily practice. This is expressed not only through pervasive concepts of bodily health, fitness and beauty, but also in relation to sexuality…