(I.),(II.) ORGANIZING SOCIETY & FAMILY, KINSHIP, AND HOUSEHOLD

Social Groups

• Definition: Two or more individuals interacting with shared characteristics/interests.

• Formation: Common ancestry, territorial proximity, or functional interdependence.

• Group vs. Institution:

  • Group: Temporary, collection of people.

  • Institution: Permanent, functioning entity (e.g., family, government).

Non-Groups

1. Social Aggregates: People in the same place/time (e.g., bus queue).

2. Collectivity: State of being in a group.

3. Social Category: Shared social traits (e.g., "elderly").

Types of Groups

1. Primary Group:

   • Small, intimate, frequent interaction (e.g., family, friends).

2. Secondary Group:

   • Large, impersonal, goal-oriented (e.g., corporations, nations).

3. Reference Group:

   • Influences behavior/attitudes (e.g., in-group [fraternities] vs. out-group).