With the results of field-work pouring in and the constant modifications of theory brought about thereby, it becomes a task practically impossible to write a general ‘Anthropology’ which will not be out-of-date before it issues from the press. Nevertheless, from time to time the attempt is made and one of the latest ventures is ‘Man, Past and Present,’ by Mr. A. H. Keane (University Press, Cambridge). It is a general classification and description of the races of man which is open to the same objections as to validity of classification as can be offered to any work on the subject at the present stage of knowledge. At the same time it contains much information in compact form, is not technical and will doubtless be useful. Of similar scope is ‘The Races of Man,’ by J. Deniker, which has just appeared in English form (Scribner’s Contemp. Sci. Series). This work, also compact, is somewhat more technical than Keane’s and also more accurate. It contains an appendix, with brief tables of measurements and indices adapted for quick reference. * * * * * Of more special studies, unquestionably the most important work of the year is Messrs. Spencer and Gillen’s ‘The Native Tribes of Central Australia’ (Macmillan). This extraordinarily minute account of the customs of the tribes with which it deals has already begun to attract the attention which it deserves. The problems upon which it throws light are numerous, but probably that of most general interest is Totemism, with its many social and religious bearings. The origin of this well-known savage custom has been a puzzle and heretofore not even a plausible suggestion has been made toward its solution. Messrs. Spencer and Gillen’s account of the totemic ceremonies of the Arunta tribe, however, points irresistibly toward a definite economic origin, an attempt to preserve and increase the totemic animals and objects for the good of the tribe. The underlying relation between the clansman and his totem, as well as the social relations between the members of a clan, with the rules regarding marriage and the resultant modification of the family organization, are all analyzed with quite exceptional skill and in this and other fields the book is destined to become a classic. THE PROGRESS OF SCIENCE.