Food to a large extent is what holds a society together, and eating is closely linked to deep spiritual experiences.

Gestures and facial expressions do indeed communicate, as anyone can prove by turning off the sound on a television set and asking watchers to characterize the speakers from the picture alone.

In place of science, the Eskimo has only magic to bridge the gap between what he can understand and what is not known. Without magic, his life would be one long panic.

The environment does not determine man's culture; it merely sets the outer limits and at the same time offers opportunities.

Language does not stand still. Surprisingly, despite this knowledge, most speakers are fearful of change.

An invention or new combination can be successful only if all if the elements necessary for the recombination are present in the culture.

Marriage is simply an economic necessity, and so there are no elaborate courtship displays or marriage celebrations among the Eskimo.