Systems of Descent

Introduction

Unilineal Forms

  1. Patrilineal
  2. Matrilineal
  3. Dual Descent
  4. Descent Group Structures
    1. Lineages
    2. Segmentary Systems
    3. Clans
    4. Moieties
  5. Descent Group Functions

Cognatic Forms

  1. Bilateral
    1. Bilateral Descent Groups (Stocks)
    2. Kindreds
    3. Kinship Degree
      1. Civil Degree
      2. Canon Degree
      3. Collateral Degree
    4. Group Dynamics
    5. Social Functions
      1. Succession and Inheritance
      2. Marriage
      3. Alliance Formation and Feuding
      4. Local Group Formation
  2. Ambilineal
 Examples
  1. Ancient Hebrews
  2. Turkish Villlage
  3. Igbo
  4. Yanomamo
  5. Dani
  6. Akan
  7. Ju/'hoansi
  8. Gilbert Islands
© Brian Schwimmer
 University of Manitoba
Created: August 2003