01
Front
What does descent mean in anthropology?
Back
Descent is the culturally recognized way people trace relationships across generations and affiliate with kin groups.
Free Online Flashcard Deck
2 Descent and Kin Groups Free Online FlashCards
Study 2 Descent and Kin Groups with 12 free online flashcards. Review key terms, definitions, and concepts with this interactive flashcard deck.
12 cards
02
Front
What defines a lineage?
Back
A lineage is a descent group whose members recognize genealogical links to a common ancestor.
03
Front
How can kin-group membership shape social relationships?
Back
Kin-group membership can provide shared identity, define obligations, and shape mutual support or cooperation.
04
Front
How is group membership traced in patrilineal descent?
Back
In patrilineal descent, people affiliate with a kin group through their fathers; membership is traced onward through men.
05
Front
How is group membership traced in matrilineal descent?
Back
In matrilineal descent, people affiliate with their mother’s kin group, and membership is traced onward through women.
06
Front
Does matrilineal descent necessarily mean women hold all authority?
Back
No. Matrilineal descent describes how group membership is traced; it does not necessarily mean women hold all authority.
07
Front
Which kinship principle recognizes both parental lines?
Back
Bilateral kinship recognizes relatives through both the mother’s and father’s lines, often forming an individual-centered kindred.
08
Front
What is ambilineal descent?
Back
Ambilineal descent allows a person or family to affiliate through either the mother’s or the father’s line.
09
Front
How does a clan differ from a lineage?
Back
A clan is generally a broader group claiming descent from a shared ancestor without specifying or tracing every genealogical link.
10
Front
What is a phratry?
Back
A phratry is a larger grouping that can organize related clans.
11
Front
What is a moiety?
Back
A moiety is one of two broad kin groups into which a society may be divided.
12
Front
What aspects of social life may kin groups organize?
Back
Kin groups may organize access to land or other resources, political or religious roles, and marriage rules.
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