An account of the experiences of men who are repeatedly arrested for public drunkenness. This book challenges the idea that these men are simply rejects from society, who cannot organize their behavior by cultural traditions. Using the recently discovered methods of formal ethnographic analysis, the author presents this urban sub-culture as it relates to law enforcement agencies. Life in one jail is described in detail, showing how it changes the men's personal identities, teaching them the skills of this sub-culture and motivating them to adopt a nomadic way of life where drinking is a great social value. Originally published by Little, Brown and Company in 1970.
ReviewsA classic with enduring value. The book pioneered the use of ethnoscience to study subcultures in America....While Spradley's book is carefully researched and presented, it is also a warm tale about the research process. -- Douglas Harper, SUNY, Potsdam
A classic that combines science with ethical concern. -- Dr. Laura Nader, University of California, Berkeley
Book InformationISBN 9780819168566
Author James P. SpradleyFormat Paperback
Page Count 301
Imprint University Press of AmericaPublisher University Press of America
Weight(grams) 413g
Dimensions(mm) 212mm * 144mm * 24mm