In 'The Old Way,' Elizabeth Marshall Thomas takes readers on a compelling journey into the lives of ancient hunter-gatherer societies. Through her vivid storytelling and personal experiences, she reveals the intricate dynamics of these communities, bridging the gap between the past and present. The book challenges our modern perceptions of civilization and explores the deep connections humans have with nature and each other. With a blend of anthropology and memoir, Thomas invites us to reflect on what we can learn from these timeless ways of life. Prepare to question everything you thought you knew about human existence and our place in the world.
By Elizabeth Marshall Thomas
Published: 2007
"In a world that has forgotten the rhythms of nature, we must remember that survival is rooted in our connection to the land and each other."
Elizabeth Marshall Thomas was nineteen when her father took his family to live among the Bushmen of the Kalahari. Fifty years later, after a life of writing and study, Thomas returns to her experiences with the Bushmen, one of the last hunter-gatherer societies on earth, and discovers among them an essential link to the origins of all human society. Humans lived for 1,500 centuries as roving clans, adapting daily to changes in environment and food supply, living for the most part like their animal ancestors. Those origins are not so easily abandoned, Thomas suggests, and our modern society has plenty still to learn from the Bushmen. Through her vivid, empathic account, Thomas reveals a template for the lives and societies of all humankind.
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“In a world that has forgotten the rhythms of nature, we must remember that survival is rooted in our connection to the land and each other.”
The Old Way
By Elizabeth Marshall Thomas
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Elizabeth Marshall Thomas is an acclaimed American author and anthropologist, known for her profound insights into the lives of animals and the human experience. Born in 1931, she gained recognition with her influential works, including 'The Hidden Life of Dogs' and 'The Tribe of Tiger,' where she explores the complex relationships between humans and their animal companions. Her writing is characterized by a unique blend of personal narrative and scientific observation, often drawing on her extensive fieldwork and deep understanding of animal behavior. Thomas's insightful storytelling has garnered a loyal readership and contributed significantly to the fields of anthropology and animal studies.
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