Our minds and habits of thought represent the evolution of centuries of thinking. The customs of the savage races of today mirror the periods of the beginning of man. Through a study of Melanesian methods and manners, Malinowski has developed definite views regarding our own customs. Through this study he runs afoul of the psychoanalysts and he finds it necessary to devote at least half his book to answering the criticisms leveled against his views by Dr. Ernest Jones.