An Invitation to Laughter: A Lebanese Anthropologist in the Arab World

by Fuad I. Khuri, Sonia Jalbout Khuri (Editor), Richard T. Antoun (Foreword)

For the late Fuad I. Khuri, a distinguished career as an anthropologist began not because of typical concerns like accessibility, money, or status, but because the very idea of an occupation that baffled his countrymen made them—and him—laugh. “When I tell them that ‘anthropology’ is my profession . . . they think I am either speaking a strange language or referring to a new medicine.” This profound appreciation for humor, especially in the contradictions inherent in the study of cultures, is a distinctive theme of An Invitation to Laughter, Khuri’s astute memoir of life as an anthropologist in the Middle East.

A Christian Lebanese, Khuri offers up in this unusual autobiography both an insider’s and an outsider’s perspective on life in Lebanon, elsewhere in the Middle East, and in West Africa. Khuri entertains and informs with clever insights into such issues as the mentality of Arabs toward women, eating habits of the Arab world, the impact of Islam on West Africa, and the extravagant lifestyles of wealthy Arabs, and even offers a vision for a type of democracy that could succeed in the Middle East. In his life and work, as these astonishing essays make evident, Khuri demonstrated how the discipline of anthropology continues to make a difference in bridging dangerous divides.

224 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2007

Reviews

[Helios · Rating 5 out of 5]

"An Invitation to Laughter" is a posthumous memoir by Fuad I. Khuri, a prominent Lebanese anthropologist known for his insightful analysis of Arab culture and society. The book reflects on Khuri's experiences and observations as an Arab Christian anthropologist navigating the complexities of the Arab world. It serves not only as a personal narrative but also as a critical examination of various cultural phenomena within Arab societies.

Khuri employs humor and wit to dissect serious issues such as gender roles, social hierarchies, and the impact of Islam on daily life. His observations on the mentality of Arabs towards women highlight prevalent societal norms and the challenges faced in advocating for gender equality in a traditionally patriarchal context.The book delves into the eating habits across the Arab world, illustrating how food serves as a cultural touchstone that reflects broader social dynamics. Khuri's anthropological lens allows readers to appreciate the significance of communal meals and hospitality in fostering social ties and cultural identity.

Khuri critiques the extravagant lifestyles of wealthy Arabs, juxtaposing them against the backdrop of socio-economic disparities in the region. This critique extends to discussions about modernity and tradition, exploring how wealth influences cultural practices and social structures. One of the more ambitious aspects of Khuri's work is his vision for a type of democracy that could thrive in the Middle East. He argues for a model that respects local traditions while embracing democratic principles, suggesting that understanding cultural nuances is essential for political reform.

"An Invitation to Laughter" is a multifaceted work that combines personal narrative with rigorous anthropological analysis. It invites readers to engage with complex cultural issues through humor and insight, making it both an informative and enjoyable read. The book stands as a testament to Khuri's legacy in anthropology, offering valuable perspectives on Arab culture that remain relevant in contemporary discussions about identity, society, and governance in the Middle East.

[David · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very interesting and amusing book for anyone interested in the Middle East, or anthropology, about the foibles of fieldwork and being in other societies.