"Purity and Danger" is a seminal work by anthropologist Mary Douglas, published in 1966. The book explores the concepts of purity and pollution in various cultures, examining how societies define what is considered clean or unclean. Douglas argues that these definitions are not just about hygiene but are deeply tied to social structures and cultural beliefs. In her analysis, Douglas highlights how rituals and taboos serve to maintain social order by categorizing experiences and objects. She emphasizes that what is deemed dangerous or impure often reflects broader societal anxieties, revealing the underlying values and norms of a community.