The Naked Ape

Reading The Naked Ape by Desmond Morris.

I’m just starting out on this book.

Desmond Morris takes on an interesting point of view in his introduction. He states that anthropologist have it all wrong in studying group still living in “technologically simple tribal groupd” as an example of human behavior. He proposes that these groups are in fact “stultified” -they have failed to advanced and have gone wrong somewhere along the way, while the majority of humanity has explored and grown beyond this state.

Though he does not discount that this information has been useful, he proposes that it is now time to look into the “typical behavior of the typical naked ape,” i.e. the mainstream specimen who represent the majority: successful members of the main cultures.

So far so good. I look forward to more.

Book Review: Almost French

I wrote a review of Almost French, written by Sarah Turnbull, an Australian expat living in Paris, France.

It’s a fun easy to read book with lots of very humorous moments. Part travel book, part personal journey into another culture, this will delight any francophile… and anyone else too, for that matter.

Here is an exerpt, then click on the link for the rest of the review:

It is, however, well written and delightful to read, and a great study of French etiquette with the love of beauty and elegance above all else. One particular moment comes to mind when Sarah quickly throws on sweat pants to run off to the bakery for fresh bread. Frederic is horrified: “Are you going out like that, wearing your gymnastic pantaloons?” “Yeah, I’m just going to the bakery” Sarah replies, to which comes Frederic’s indignation, “But that’s not nice for the baker!”

Enjoy. Please be sure to rate the review via the star system at the end. Thanks a million.

Almost French full review