The Nuer: A Description of the Modes of Livelihood and Political Institutions of a Nilotic People

Assess Evans-Pritchard’s argument regarding ecological influences on culture. What evidence is there that this principle holds true for all human cultures? To what extent does Evans-Pritchard suggest that it does?

Research the model of social anthropology which Evans-Pritchard represented, structural functionalism, and observe how it is treated in anthropological circles today. Write an essay in the form of a letter to Evans-Pritchard, advising him how he might revise and strengthen his book by taking into account later critiques and refinements of structural functionalism.

Evans-Pritchard depicts Nuer culture as being fundamentally egalitarian. Consider his depiction of gender relations in Nuer society and assess whether it fits with this view of an overarching egalitarianism.