The Main Stalk: A Synthesis of Navajo Philosophy

By John R. Farella

Book Overview

"Although they are among the most studied people on earth, the Navajo possess a complex philosophy. . . . A valuable source for those deeply interested in the structure of the Navajo universe, its mythology, and its central concept of long life and happiness." -- Masterkey "This is a stimulating book. Essentially, it criticizes previous discussions of Navajo religion and philosophy for greatly underestimating their complexity and sophistication. . . . What the author discovers in Navajo thought is that the key concepts are interrelated in a grand, moral, ethical, philosophic, and cosmic unity." -- American Anthropologist "Discredits dualists, both non-Indian and Indian, who see simplistic oppositions of Good and Evil in Navajo culture and philosophy. The concept of walking in beauty, as related to the proper growth of the corn plant, unifies the book, and Farella does some impressive cross-cultural linguistic analysis to derive practical and ceremonial applications of these central Navajo metaphors. . . . This is one of the better books on Indian religion." -- Choice

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0816512108
• ISBN13: 9780816512102
• Release Date: July 1990
• Publisher: University of Arizona Press
• Length: 221 Pages
• Weight: 1.03 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 6.0" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

Solid discussion of Navajo concepts

I am prompted to write a review by the first reviewer's negative comments. This is, indeed, an academic book. It requires attention and thought of the reader but it is well written and not really very difficult to follow. The world view being discussed, however, is complex and not easily grasped by reading any one book. This is an excellent treatment of the subject which invites and expects the serious reader to work a bit for the rich reward it offers.

A unique, compelling book

This is a wonderful introduction to the fundamental principles of Navajo philosophy. This is not a "New Age" book and it is not light reading, but it is clearly written. Navajo philosophy is quite complex. Imagine trying to explain the core of Aristotle's work to an audience that is completely ignorant of Western philosophy, and you will begin to appreciate the task that faced the author. The author does a fine job introducing the reader to Navajo philosophy and showing that Navajo assumptions about the universe, and our place in it, are compelling.