Adorning Bodies - by Marilynn Johnson (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

How is meaning in our bodies constructed? To what extent is meaning in bodies innate, evolved through biological adaptations? To what extent is meaning in bodies culturally constructed? Does it change when we adorn ourselves in dress? In Adorning Bodies, Marilynn Johnsondraws on evolutionary theory and philosophy in order to think about art, beauty, and aesthetics.

Considering meaning in bodies and bodily adornment, she explores how the ways we use our bodies are similar to - yet at other times different from - animals. Johnson engages with the work of evolutionary theorists, philosophers of language, and cultural theorists - Charles Darwin, H. P. Grice, and Roland Barthes respectively - to examine both natural and non-natural meanings. She addresses how both systems of meaning signify relevant information to other humans, with respect to both bodies and clothes. Johnson also demonstrates that how we dress could negatively influence the way our bodies can be read, and how some humans and animals use their bodies to deceive.

Review Quotes

Adorning Bodiesis an important reminder of our embodied lives, where our adorned bodies are imbued with meaning, and that 'everything speaks'. Johnson provides us with a fresh take on these themes, bringing the philosophy of language to life by applying it to our bodily selves in a lucid and engaging way.
Suki Finn, Lecturer, Royal Holloway University of London, UK

Adorning Bodies invites us to consider how our bodies and clothing convey meaning, for better or for worse. Johnson masterfully appeals to the philosophy of language and evolutionary theory to develop a rich account of the meaning woven into the fabric we wear. From Darwin to Stonewall, the book makes elegant use of historical texts and contemporary examples. It will be invaluable for scholars and interesting to anyone who wants to think more deeply about what it means to get dressed.
Kate Moran, Associate Professor of Philosophy, Brandeis University, USA

Johnson interprets adornment through the combined lenses of the philosophy of language and evolutionary theory. The result is interesting, informative and very enjoyable. The book is full of great insights, and made me re-evaluate my relationship to the clothes I wear. It's an excellent contribution to the literature.
Richard Moore, Senior Research Fellow, University of Warwick, UK

About the Author

Marilynn Johnson is Assistant Professor at the University of San Diego, USA.