From best-selling social commentator and cultural historian Barbara Ehrenreich comes this fascinating exploration of one of humanity's oldest traditions: the celebration of communal joy, historically expressed in ecstatic revels of feasting, costuming, and dancing. Ehrenreich uncovers the origins of communal celebration in human biology and culture, showing that such mass festivities have been indigenous to the West since the ancient Greeks. Though suppressed by elites who fear the undermining of social hierarchies, outbreaks of group revelry still persist, Ehrenreich shows, pointing to the 1960s rock-and-roll rebellion and the more recent "carnivalization" of sports.
Original, exhilarating, and deeply optimistic, Dancing in the Streets shows that we are innately social beings, impelled to share our joy and thereby envision a peaceable future.
When fans do a wave at the ballpark, they're acting out of communal joy, an ancient human impulse that, according to social critic Barbara Ehrenreich, doesn't get its due in Western culture. Ehrenreich traces joy from ancient celebrations to modern sporting events and rock concerts. Her writing switches between analysis and wry commentary and calls for more joy in everyday lives. Pam Ward shifts gears ably and brings out all of these qualities, making listening a joyous experience that holds listeners' attention. While the author does suggest that more sharing of joy can be beneficial, Ehrenreich's book mostly shines light on the history of celebration and society's attitudes toward festivities. J.A.S. (c) AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine
About the Author
Barbara Ehrenreich is the author of several books, including the New York Times bestseller Nickel and Dimed
