Question

Arrange the following in expanding order of social structure:
A. Lineage
B. Phratry
C. Clan
D. Family
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A, C, B, D
• B. A, B, C, D
• C. D, A, C, B
• D. C, B, D, A

Hint:

Remember the kinship pyramid: {Family} is the base. Several families make up a {Lineage} (traced descent). Several lineages make up a {Clan} (stipulated descent). Several clans make up a {Phratry}.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to arrange different kinship-based social groups in order of increasing size and inclusiveness. This involves understanding the standard anthropological model of unilineal descent group structure.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The typical hierarchy of descent groups, from smallest to largest, is as follows:
- D. Family: The smallest and most fundamental unit of kinship, typically a nuclear or extended family.
- A. Lineage: A unilineal descent group whose members can trace their descent from a common ancestor through known genealogical links. It is composed of several related families.
- C. Clan: A unilineal descent group whose members claim descent from a common ancestor, but the genealogical links are not actually traced. The common ancestor is often a mythical figure or a totem. A clan is typically composed of several related lineages.
- B. Phratry: A grouping of two or more clans that are thought to be related. This is a larger, more inclusive, but often looser social unit than a clan. (A moiety is when a society is divided into two phratries).
Step 3: Final Answer:
Arranging these in expanding order (smallest to largest) gives the sequence:
Family (D) $\rightarrow$ Lineage (A) $\rightarrow$ Clan (C) $\rightarrow$ Phratry (B).
The correct sequence is D, A, C, B.