Emphasis Preaching Journal
Of jungles and gardens
Commentary
After Margaret Mead, the world-renowned anthropologist, gave a presentation at a university, she hosted a time of questions and dialogue. One student asked her what she considered to be the first sign of civilization in any given culture.
This student, like most in the gathering, was expecting Ms. Mead to talk about fishhooks or clay pots or grinding stones. Her answer surprised them all. She said that the first sign of civilization was represented, in her mind, by a healed femur. The femur is the human thighbone. At the look of uncertain stares, Ms. Mead went on to explain.
This student, like most in the gathering, was expecting Ms. Mead to talk about fishhooks or clay pots or grinding stones. Her answer surprised them all. She said that the first sign of civilization was represented, in her mind, by a healed femur. The femur is the human thighbone. At the look of uncertain stares, Ms. Mead went on to explain.
