Marvin Harris

Date of Birth: August 18, 1927

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: October 25, 2001

Biography

Marvin Harris was an influential American anthropologist known for his development of cultural materialism. Born on August 18, 1927, in Brooklyn, New York, Harris significantly shaped the field of anthropology through his theoretical contributions and extensive fieldwork. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Columbia University, where he also completed his Ph.D. in anthropology in 1953. Harris is best known for his research on the cultural practices and social structures of various societies, particularly in Brazil and Mozambique. His seminal works, including “The Rise of Anthropological Theory” (1968) and “Cannibals and Kings” (1977), have left a lasting impact on the study of human cultures. Harris passed away on October 25, 2001, but his legacy continues to influence anthropologists around the world.

5 Interesting Facts about Marvin Harris

1. Marvin Harris introduced the concept of cultural materialism, which emphasizes the material aspects of culture in shaping human behavior.

2. His book “Cannibals and Kings” is known for its provocative exploration of the ecological and material reasons behind cultural practices.

3. Harris conducted extensive fieldwork in Brazil and Mozambique, focusing on the links between environmental factors and social structures.

4. He taught at Columbia University for many years before joining the faculty at the University of Florida.

5. Harris was a strong advocate for the application of scientific methods in anthropology, challenging more interpretive approaches.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Marvin Harris

1. “Cultural materialism is not a theory of everything; it is a research strategy.”

2. “The only way we can understand human behavior is by understanding the material conditions that shape it.”

3. “Anthropology is the most humanistic of the sciences and the most scientific of the humanities.”

4. “The scientific method is the best tool we have for understanding the complexities of human culture.”

5. “The study of anthropology requires a balance between open-minded observation and rigorous scientific analysis.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

While Marvin Harris was a respected academic, specific details about his net worth are not typically disclosed for scholars. However, his contributions to anthropology have been invaluable.