Ruth Benedict
Anthropologist and cultural theorist

Born
1887
138 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1948
77 years ago — 61 years old
Category
Thinkers & Philosophers
Country
United States
Links & References
Benedict studied cultures and their patterns, emphasizing the role of culture in shaping human behavior. She contributed significantly to the field of anthropology with her work on the concept of culture as a personality. Her most notable works include 'Patterns of Culture,' which compares three distinct cultures: the Zuni, the Dobu, and the Kwakiutl. Benedict's theories influenced cultural anthropology by arguing against biological determinism. She held a position at Columbia University, where she taught and mentored many students, furthering academic exploration in anthropology.
Published 'Patterns of Culture'
Developed the concept of culture as a personality
Taught at Columbia University
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