Book Description

Dance and Cultural Diversity examines the art of dance within the context of different cultures and demonstrates the connections between dance and academic disciplines such as anthropology, sociology, psychology, and philosophy. The text shows that dance has the power to provoke intellectual thought, promote the communion of people from all social classes and walks of life, and reveal the undeniable commonalities of the human experience, while also serving as a valuable tool for expressing cultural diversity. Dedicated chapters explore the essence of dance, dance in American Indian culture, Polynesian culture, African culture, and South American culture, and the African influence on American dance. The book also covers dances of East Asia, India, and Bali, and the healing properties of dance. The chapters explore specific types of dances, historical and political aspects of geographical areas, and the effect that dance has on the members of each community. The third edition incorporates new, diverse research, more robust coverage of specific dances to provide an expanded look at a region's cultural groups, and explanations as to why certain cultural dances have been selected for examination within the text. Language and references throughout the text have been updated to increase their timeliness, inclusivity, and cultural sensitivity. Dance and Cultural Diversity is exemplary for courses on dance, world traditions, and cultural diversity. It can also be used in cultural anthropology and global society courses.