Author Talks At Radcliffe

Joan Jacobs Brumberg, author of a new book, The Body Project: An Intimate History of American Girls, held a discussion and book signing at Radcliffe's Schlesinger Library yesterday.

More than 100 people crowded the room to hear the professor of history, human development and women's studies from Cornell University speak about her book.

Brumberg's book addresses contemporary girls' preoccupation with their bodies and appearance, according to a press release.

Brumberg discussed the psychological implications and emotional problems associated with hyper-awareness about physical appearance.

"Every body part is part of the body project, every part of the body is a message board," she said.

Blumberg addressed the problems girls face in modern society by often turning to their appearance as the root of any personal or societal problems they face.

The problem is one of "the body as girls' central project as opposed to education achievement or character," she said.