"Media Anthropology represents a convergence of issues and interests on anthropological approaches to the study of media. The purpose of this reader is to promote the identity of the field of study; identify its major concepts, methods, and bibliography; comment on the state of the art; and provide ... examples of current research." (Publisher description) more

"This book combines bibliographic essay and theory construction to provide a perspective on ritual as a special and powerful form of communication. Part one is a critical review of definitions of ritual from anthropology, sociology, communication studies and other literature, ending with a theoretic ... al essay on the contributions of communication theory to understanding ritual. Part two is a critical review of the uses of the term ritual in communication studies literature, covering mediated rituals and ceremonies, ritualistic media uses and audience activities, political, rhetorical and civic rituals, rituals of everyday interaction, rituals of organizational life and finally a conception of communication as ritual." (Publisher description) more