David Graeber
David Graeber
12 February 1961 – 2 September 2020- Books
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David Rolfe Graeber (/ˈɡreɪbər/; February 12, 1961 – September 2, 2020) was an American anthropologist, anarchist activist and author known for his books Debt: The First 5000 Years (2011), The Utopia of Rules (2015) and Bullshit Jobs: A Theory (2018). He was a professor of anthropology at the London School of Economics.
As an assistant professor and associate professor of anthropology at Yale from 1998–2007 he specialised in theories of value and social theory. The university's decision not to rehire him when he would otherwise have become eligible for tenure sparked an academic controversy, and a petition with more than 4,500 signatures. He went on to become, from 2007–13, Reader in Social Anthropology at Goldsmiths, University of London.
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Non-Fiction Sociology Politics & Society Philosophy History
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Frequently asked questions
David Graeber is widely recognized for his work as an anthropologist and anarchist activist, particularly for his critiques of bureaucracy, debt, and the nature of work in modern society. His writings often explore themes of social theory, economic anthropology, and direct action.
For readers new to David Graeber's work, "Debt: The First 5000 Years" is an excellent starting point, offering a comprehensive look at the history and anthropology of debt. Alternatively, "Bullshit Jobs: A Theory" provides an accessible and engaging critique of meaningless work in contemporary capitalism.
David Graeber's writing is characterized by its blend of rigorous academic research with accessible, often provocative, prose. He frequently uses historical anecdotes and ethnographic examples to illustrate complex theoretical arguments, making his work engaging for both academic and general audiences.