Philippe Bourgois' In Search of Respect earns praise for its compelling ethnographic study of New York's inner-city communities, offering deep insights into systemic poverty and drug culture. The narrative's raw, honest portrayal is both a strength and a drawback, as some find it unsettling. The detailed, empathetic approach, however, elevates it as a powerful academic resource.

In Search of Respect by Philippe Bourgois will captivate readers interested in urban anthropology, social justice, and life within marginalized communities. Comparable to those who appreciated The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down by Anne Fadiman or There Are No Children Here by Alex Kotlowitz.

In Search of Respect: Selling Crack in El Barrio by Philippe Bourgois is an ethnographic study focusing on East Harlem's underground economy, where Bourgois befriends local drug dealers to understand the impact of systemic racism and social marginalization on their lives. Through their stories, he explores themes of respect, self-worth, and the harsh reality of poverty, proposing changes to societal and political attitudes to address these issues effectively. The book discusses themes that may be triggering for some readers, such as drug use and violence.

Gritty / Informative / Unnerving / Challenging / Emotional

- In Search of Respect by Philippe Bourgois is an acclaimed ethnographic study that won the Margaret Mead Award in 1997 for its impactful contribution to anthropology.
- The book is part of the Cambridge Studies in Medical Anthropology series, illustrating its focus on cultural and social aspects of health and illness.
- Philippe Bourgois conducted extensive fieldwork in East Harlem, New York, offering a deep, immersive perspective into the lives of marginalized communities.

**Philippe Bourgois**  
An ethnographer who immerses himself in the drug culture of East Harlem, documenting his experiences and interactions with the local community.

**Ray**  
The owner of the Game Room crackhouse, who plays a crucial role in introducing Bourgois to the underground world and whose businesses reflect his complex persona.

**Primo**  
A crack dealer and user whom Bourgois befriends, known for his storytelling and struggles with maintaining a stable job in the legal economy.

**Caesar**  
A violent crack dealer and user subcontracted at the Game Room, struggling with legal employment and exhibiting tense relationships with other characters.

**Candy**  
A defiant and outspoken woman connected to the original owner of the Game Room, known for defying gender roles and her tumultuous relationship with Felix.

Philippe Bourgois

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In Search of Respect: Selling Crack in El Barrio

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