Some Opinions of the Press on the First Edition:—
Edward B. Tylor in The Academy, October 3, 1891.
“A volume which at once takes an important place in the much debated problem of primitive society.... The distinguishing character of Dr. Westermarck’s whole treatise is his vigorous effort to work the biology-side and the culture-side of anthropology into one connected system; and there can be no doubt of the value of the resulting discussions, which will develop further as the inquiry goes on in this direction.”
Spectator, February 13, 1892.
“Mr. Wallace’s eulogium of the author’s clearness of style and command of English will be echoed by every reader. But the book is much more than a clever literary performance. It is by far the most important contribution to our knowledge of a profoundly interesting chapter in human history that has yet appeared.... Not a page is without its interest.”
Athenæum, August 8, 1891.
“We are inclined to concur in Mr. Wallace’s opinion. It must be added that the work is written in excellent English, that it deals with delicate and difficult questions in a tone of faultless taste, that its style is clear and its matter exceedingly well arranged, and that it is readable from beginning to end.”
Mind, October, 1891.
“The author’s equipment, logical as well as psychological, for his task is of a very exceptional order.”
Westminster Review, August, 1891.