Changing Bodies

Where are we at with studies of Body & Society? What are the key accomplishments in the field? This book provides the clearest and most comprehensive account of work in this area to date.. . Based on a novel theory of action it surveys the terrain by arguing that human identity social relationships and moral figurations develop as a result of people living in and seeking to reach beyond the limits of their bodily being. From this starting point the author undertakes a series of studies on sport transgenderism migration illness survival and belief which illuminate the relationship between bodily change and action. . . The book provides an unrivalled survey of theory and empirical research and explores the hitherto neglected tradition of American body studies.Wide in scope systematic and incisive the book represents a landmark addition to the field of studies in body and society.