Anthro 2a Essay Questions (module 1-5)

What problem does fraternal polyandry solve in Himalayan south-central Asia?

It prevents division of scarce land among brothers.

How is fraternal polyandry an adaptation to material conditions?

It helps manage limited farmland and resources by keeping brothers in one household.

Is fraternal polyandry just a material solution?

No, cultural values and kinship systems also shape the practice.

How is Nuer kinship organized?

It’s patrilineal and based on cattle exchange.

What does Nuer marriage involve?

Cattle are exchanged to form alliances between families.

Is Nuer kinship based only on blood?

No, it’s also about social obligations and relationships.

Who holds power in Nuer kinship?

Male elders, because they control cattle and marriage.

How does a bigman gain authority?

Through personal achievement and gift-giving.

How does a chief gain authority?

It’s inherited and maintained by redistributing goods.

How does a state leader gain authority?

Through formal institutions and legal power.

How does labor mobilization differ between bigmen, chiefs, and states?

Bigmen persuade, chiefs expect loyalty, states use force or law.

Why must Trobriand chiefs be generous?

Their power comes from giving, not taking.

How do chiefs show generosity?

Through public yam feasts and gift-giving.

Why are many wives important for Trobriand chiefs?

Wives’ relatives grow yams, increasing the chief’s status.

What does Western theory say about gender and space?

Men = public/political, women = domestic/private.

How do Trobriand women challenge Western gender theory?

They control banana bundles used in public rituals.

What does this reveal about gendered domains?

Power and politics are not limited to men or the public.

What do men provide in Trobriand yam exchanges?

Yams to their sisters and their sisters’ families.

What do women provide in banana bundle exchanges?

Bundles for ceremonies and mortuary displays.

What do yams and bundles represent?

They are currencies of political and kinship relationships.

Are Trobriand fathers biologically related to their children?

Yes, but identity comes from the mother’s matriline.

What do Trobriand fathers provide?

Food, care, and emotional support.

What defines fatherhood in Trobriand culture?

Presence and nurture, not just blood ties.