SOURCE: A review of The Chrysanthemum and the Sword, in American Anthropologist, Vol. 49, No. 3, 1947, pp. 469-72.

Kroeber was a leading figure in American anthropology during the middle decades of the twentieth century and published numerous studies of Native American cultures. In the following review, he praises Benedict's treatment of the relationship between psychology and culture in The Chrysanthemum and the Sword.

This analysis of Japan [The Chrysanthemum and the Sword] is a book that makes one proud to be an anthropologist. It shows what can be done with orientation and discipline even without speaking knowledge of the language and residence in the country.

Dr. Benedict deals definitely with culture, and equally definitely with psychology. In her own manner the two are interfused; the cultural value standards are stated as such, and so too is it stated how normal individuals act under them. The skilful interweaving of the many...