ANTA02H3 Lecture Notes - Lecture 9: Incest Taboo, Bride Price, Endogamy
Document Summary
Continuing with - chapter 7: kinship, marriage and family. The argument that marriage should be defined as a union between a man and a woman is problematic for several reasons. Cross culture variations: difference between marriage practice and customs. Marriage as union between individuals is a relatively modern idea- associated with industrial revolution and capitalism. Outside industrial societies marriage often is more a relationship between groups than one between individuals. Romantic love many exist, but is often subordinated to priorities of larger family/descent group. Not single definition of marriage accounts for cross-cultural diversity in marriages. Some societies recognize various kinds of same-sex marriage, symbolic and social relationships. Several specific cultural practices highlight the importance of marriage as an alliance between groups. Sororate: widower marries one of his deceased wife"s sisters (or another woman from her group if a sister is not available) (man marries) Levirate: widow marries one of her deceased husband"s brothers. (wife marries)
