The Mind of Primitive Man

FRANZ BOAS (1858-1942) has long been considered the father of modern American anthropology. He introduced the relativistic, culture-centered principles and methods of investigation that continue to dominate the field today. By attempting to fuse anthropology with political and social activism, he sought to insure that his scientific contributions had practical relevance to the complex and challenging issues of race and gender facing American society and indeed, the world.


The Mind of Primitive Man has always been among the most influential and popular of Franz Boas’ studies. His writing is lucid, involving and evocative, and sheds more light on the issue of what is basic to all human nature, and what is culturally influenced, than any other. An absolute must read for anyone concerned with the history, development, and defense of personal freedom.


Historians have long recognized the monumental role that Boas played in eviscerating the racist worldview that prevailed in the American social sciences at the beginning of the 20th century. With compelling scientific evidence, Boas proved “that all men are born with identical and universal human attributes, and thus are created equal.”