Sami Zubaida

Sami Zubaida (1937-2021) was a prominent British scholar and writer of Iraqi origin. He was known for his extensive work in the fields of sociology, law, and food studies, with a particular focus on the Middle East and North Africa region.

Early Life and Education

Zubaida was born in Baghdad, Iraq in 1937. He moved to the United Kingdom for his higher education, where he attended the University of London and later the London School of Economics (LSE). At LSE, he completed his PhD in Sociology.

Career

Zubaida's academic career spanned over five decades, during which he held various positions at different institutions. He was a professor of politics and sociology at Birkbeck, University of London, where he also served as the head of the Department of Politics.

His research interests were diverse and interdisciplinary, ranging from political sociology, comparative politics, to the sociology of religion and legal systems. However, he is perhaps best known for his work on food and culture, particularly in the Middle East. His book, Culinary Cultures of the Middle East, is considered a seminal work in the field of food studies.

Contributions to Food Studies

Zubaida's work in food studies is characterized by his unique approach of combining sociology, history, and anthropology to understand food cultures. He argued that food is not just a matter of sustenance, but a reflection of social, political, and cultural dynamics.

In his writings, he explored the historical transformations of culinary practices, the politics of food, and the role of food in identity formation. His work has significantly contributed to the understanding of food as a cultural and social phenomenon.

Legacy

Zubaida's contributions to the academic world extend beyond his own research. He was known for his mentorship and his commitment to fostering intellectual exchange. His work continues to inspire scholars in the fields of sociology, food studies, and Middle Eastern studies.

Selected Publications

• Culinary Cultures of the Middle East (1994)
• Law and Power in the Islamic World (2003)
• Beyond Islam: A New Understanding of the Middle East (2011)

See Also

• Food Studies
• Sociology of Food
• Middle Eastern Cuisine