Class 11 Anthropology Chapter 7 Social Anthropology

Class 11 Anthropology Chapter 7 Social Anthropology As Per New Syllabus. Class 11 Question Answer to each chapter is provided in the list so that you can easily browse throughout different chapters SCERT Class 11 Anthropology Chapter 7 Social Anthropology and select needs one.

Class 11 Anthropology Chapter 7 Social Anthropology

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Social Anthropology

Chapter – 7

EXERCISES

1. From which root word has the term “family” originated?

Ans: The term “family” originated from “household”.

2. What is ‘famulas’?

Ans: The word “family” in English is derived from the Latin word ‘famulas’.

3. What do you understand by a descent group?

Ans: A descent group is an association of consanguineal kinsmen. Therefore, members of a descent refer to a group of people sharing blood relationships.

4. Give two examples of social units.

Ans: Two examples of social units are: 

(a) Religion.

(b) Family.

5. Write a definition of social anthropology as provided in your textbook.

Ans: Social anthropology emphasize a generalizing approach to human behaviour, characteristics of the social or behavioural sciences, with the focus on particular problems relating to culture, society and personality.

6. What do you understand by “human society”?

Ans: In common parlance, the term “society”refer to a particular group, such as the Adivasi society, the Harijan society, etc. The term is also used as suffix to certain organizations, like the Arya Samaji and Brahmo Samaj, as well as to certain associations like the Customer’s Society.

7. How many groups can social scientists definition of society be divided into?

Ans: Social scientists definition of society be divided into two groups: Functional definition and structural definition.

8. What do you understand by “simple society”?

Ans: A community that has fewer people and the economic and technical aspects are simple or not developed, is known as a simple society. 

9. What do you understand by “complex society”?

Ans:  A complex society is one in which the social structure, religion, material aspects, and technological aspects are more complex or developed than in a simple society.

10. Write down any one of the social group definition given in your textbook.

Ans: According to Maclver and Page, “ A social group is any collection of human beings who are brought into human relationships with one another.

11. What do you understand by “social unit”?

Ans:  Social unit is a community with a shared socially significant characteristic, such as place, set of norms, culture, religion, values, customs, or identity.

12. Why is family regarded as a universal social unit?

Ans: Family is regarded as a universal social unit because it is the most basic and essential social unit in human society. It is supposed that the existence of a family -like social group was prior to the arrival of humans on this earth.

13. Give a definition of the family?

Ans: Family is a group of persons United by ties of marriage, blood or adoption consisting of a single household, interacting and intercommunicating with each other in their respective social role of husband and wife, mother and father, son and daughter, brother and sister, creating and maintaining a common culture.

14. What is a joint family?

Ans: A joint family comprises of a parents and their unmarried and married children who shares a common kitchen and live under the same roof. In India Hindu society, joint families are very common. In a joint family, generally, three generations live together in one household.

15. Give four examples of unilateral descent groups?

Ans: Four examples of unilateral descent groups are:- (Do yourself…)

16. What are primary and secondary groups?

Ans: Primary group: A primary group in which members have a direct and intimate relationship with one another.

H. Cooley stated, “Any primary groups, I mean those characterised by intimate face-to-face association and co-operation. They are in several senses, but chiefly in that they are fundamental in forming the social nature and ideals of the individual.” 

In general, the members of a primary group are not influenced by any secondary group. The members of the primary group have direct and face-to-face relationships. A family is a primary group, in which a child is influenced and socialized by his or her family.

Secondary group: These groups that are relatively short-lived and have no face-to-face relationships among their members. Intimate relationships seem to be lacking in such groups. Secondary groups are large, and the members are scattered over a large area. Therefore, it is difficult to maintain a direct relationship among the members of a secondary group. Though the members may not have a personal relationship, their sim, rules, and regulations are the same for all. A political party or a student organisation is an example of a secondary group. The example of a secondary group is the ‘Red Cross Society ‘, a worldwide organization.

According to D.N Majumder, “When face to face contacts are not present in the relations of members, we have secondary groups”.

“Secondary groups can roughly be defined as “The group’s who provide experience lacking in intimacy are called secondary groups”.

Ogburn and Nimkoff refer to secondary groups as “The groups who provide experience lacking in intimacy are called secondary groups”.

The social group can also be divided into two categories, based on the nature of the relationship. Summer divided social groups into In- Group and Out- Group on the basis of the attitudes of the members.

17. How do you define internal and external groups?

Ans: Internal group: The members of a social group who have reciprocal love, sympathetic feelings, and loyalty are said to be “internal group”. In simple words, when there are “we feelings” among the members of a social group, then that group can be termed a social group. When an individual is a member of a family or an organisation, then that group is the “internal group” for that person.

External group: An individual who is not a member of a group and has an apathetic or hostile attitude toward that group is considered an external group. For example, when any competition takes place between two clubs or organisations, the members of a group consider their group to be an “internal group” and the other group an “external group”.

18. Write a short note about the community.

Ans:  A population segment can be referred to as a community if they share a common area, exhibit “we feelings,” develop a feeling of togetherness, and lead similar lives.

For Maclver and Page, “Whenever the members of any groups, large or small, liver together in such a way that they share, not this or that particular interest, but the basic conditions of common life, we call that group a community.”

“Community is a social group with some degree of ‘we feeling’ and living in a given area’, according to Bogardus.

In the words of Davis, “Community is the smallest territorial group that can embrace all aspects of social life.”

19. Write the different characteristic features of the family.

Ans: The different characteristic features of the family are:

(a) A socially approved sexual union between man and a woman is the foundation of a family.

(b) Every family processes their unique identity in society. Each family generally adopts to a hereditary name and surname. One can easily identify the members of particular family by those names and surnames. In a patrilineal family, the surname of the father and in a matrilineal family the surname of the mother is adopted.

(c) The common residence is a significant feature of a family. All the members of a family live in a common residence and share the same kitchen. Due to various reasons, members of a family may temporarily stay in different places but eventually, their commonly maintained households are their permanent place of stay.

(d) There is economic interdependency among the members of a family. The earnings made by the members help in fulfilling the needs of the family.

20. What do you understand by patriarchal and matriarchal families?

Ans: Patriarchal family: A family in which the father, husband, or an elderly male member is the head of the family or where such males enjoy superior authority is called a patriarchal family. In this type of family, the children enjoy the affiliation to their father’s skin. Apart from the Santhal, Lodha, Toda, and some of the other tribal communities of India, most of the families in such communities are patriarchal.

Matriarchal family: The family is which the descent or authority is vested upon a woman or mother, such a family is called a matriarchal family. In the matriarchal family, the decision-making and authority rest upon the eldest female member of the family. According to Maclver and Page even though in a matriarchal family the authority lies with the women the actual system of authority is seen in the hands of the male folk only. The Khasi and Garo tribes have matriarchal families.

21. How do patrilineal and matrilineal families differ?

Ans: In a patrilineal family, the descent and inheritance are traced through male line i.e. the children inherit the father’s name and are known by their father’s name. The familial traditions, surnames, and properties are inherited through line. These types of families are found in both Hindu and Muslim societies, whereas In a matrilineal family, the descent and inheritance are traced through female line i.e. from mother to daughter, which means, the children in such a family are affiliated to the mother’s kin group. Matrilineal families are evident among the Khasi and Garo tribes of Meghalaya as well as the Nayars of South India.

22. What is the family of orientation and the family of procreation? Draw a diagram to illustrate your point.

Ans: The family of orientation is the family in which an individual is born and brought up in the family of orientation for him and the family of procreation, after marriage, when an individual procreates children and this creates a family.

23. Write about the changes that have taken place in India’s joint families.

Ans: The changes that have taken place in India’s joint families are:

(a) Impact of Education: One of the main causes of the disintegration of joint family is the development of education in India, especially the education of women. Due to the rapid growth of education progress, literacy rates have increased and both men and women are making job- oriented advancements. The modern education process has brought about changes in people’s beliefs, emotions, values, and ideologies. As the women have been gaining economic independence, they now claim to be an independent entity family is preferred mostly rather that a joint family.

(b) Communication and transport: Due to poor communication and inadequate transportation facilities in the earlier days, all the members of a joint family lived together in the same place and were bound to undertake collective economic arrangements in the field of agriculture and cottage industrial activities. In India, since post- British colonialism, roads and railways constructed, communication and transportation had begun to improve. These improvement enable people to move from one place to another searching for work and the members of a joint family started residing close to their workplaces along with their wives and children for convenience which disintegrates the joint families.

(c) Industrialization and urbanization: In India, after independence, in the small and large towns, factories and industrial enterprises were established. As a consequence, several domestic craft- art and cottage industries began to diminish. Domestic crafts could not compete with the industrially manufactured ones. On the other hand, as a result of the gradual increase in population growth, the agriculture of the family began to be pressurized. Thus,  few of the family members went out in search of work in these factories and industries. In this manner, may times, several groups of people came in search of jobs in the towns and started having temporary or permanent settlements. They also take their wives and children from the villages to the places where they stay. India’s urbanization trend is being fueled by the movement of villagers toward urban centers. Joint families are breaking up as a result.

(d) Changes in marriage system: With the changes in the education process, changes have also been noticed in the Indian marriage system, and this, in turn, aids in the changes of joint families. Children nowadays take up their own opinion, thoughts, and decisions with regard to marriage. In Joint families, they were tied to unwanted marital ties at young ages as per the decision of their parents and elders. At present, at the time of selection of mates for marriage, the choices of the boys and girls are given due consideration and they marry at a mature age. Marriage is now valued more as a social institution than as a religious one. Many times, because of love consequences, people have to marry despite their parents disapproval and unacceptance by the joint families. Nuclear families are formed.

24. Describe what you understand by the rules of descent.

Ans: The rules according to which an individual is affiliated to a kindred or having a common ancestor are called “rule of descent”.

According to G.P. Murdock, descent refers solely to a cultural principle whereby an individual is socially allocated to a specific group of consanguineal kinsmen.

A descent group is an association of consanguineal kinsmen. Therefore, members of a descent refer to a group of people sharing blood relationships. “Descent” has some characteristic features.

Based on the findings of anthropological studies, some of the rules of descent are mentioned below: 

(a) Members of a descent group trace their origin from a common ancestor.

(b) The ancestor of their origin is a living being of flesh and blood. 

(c) This ancestor is not hypothetical or mythical.

(d) Members of a descent group are related by blood relationships.

(e) Because of being related through a common ancestry marital ties or sexual relations are strictly prohibited among the members of a descent group.

(f) Members of the descent group are related through inheritance and succession.

25. What are unilateral and bilateral descent?

Ans: Unilateral descent: Members of a unilateral descent group trace their origins either through paternal or maternal line. Patrilineal or matrilineal descent are the two types of unilateral descent.

Bilateral descent: In some societies, the descent rules include both sides, which means descent is reckoned through both paternal and maternal line. If affiliates a child to a special group, consisting of relations from both sides i.e. mother’s and father’s side. Americans have bilateral descent. In such cases, a person may become an heir of both of his father’s and mother’s kin group.

26. Write a short note on unilateral descent.

Ans: Members of a unilateral descent group trace their origins either through paternal or maternal line. Patrilineal or matrilineal descent are the two types of unilateral descent.

(a) Patrilineal descent: In a patrilineal descent, the descent is reckoned through the father’s kin group. The children are recognized by their father’s surname. According to this rule, inheritance and succession are passed down from father to son. Most of the societies follow the patrilineal line of descent.

(b) Matrilineal descent: Matrilineal descent is the opposite of patrilineal descent. Children of this descent are recognized by their mother’s ken group. Descent is followed through the mother’s kin group and inheritance as well as succession is passed through the mother to the daughter.

27. Write down the characteristic features of society.

Ans: The characteristics features of society are:

(a) Population: Society consists of people. There could be no society without a collection of people. Society although refers to a system ties rather than a particular set of individuals. The population is the first requirement of society for its continuation.

(b) Likeness: The most significant societal trait is likeness. According to Maclver, Society meant likeness. Without a feeling of likeness, there could be no shared sense of “belonging together”, hence there would be no society. This sense of similarity of likeness was based on kinship in simple societies, and in modern societies, the concept of social likeness has expanded to include the concept of nationality. Society is made up of physically, mentally, or like-minded people with the same goal. Without likeness, friendship, closeness and association of any kind would be impossible. Additionally, it aids in mutual understanding. For this reason, according to F.H. Giddings society is founded on the “Conscious of Kind.”

(c) Differences: Another significant aspect of society is differences. Societies depend on individual diversity as it does on similarity. According to Maclver, primary resemblance and secondary differences produce the greatest of all institutions, the division of labour. If people were alike in all respects, society could not be formed and there would be little reciprocity and relationships would become limited.

(d) Interdependence: Interdependence is yet another crucial aspect of civilization. In all facets of modern society, this interdependence is evident. Man, as a social animal, is reliant on other people. This interdependence is crucial to each member’s existence and well-being. Nobody is self-sufficient. For food, shelter, security, and the satisfaction of many of his needs and necessities, he must rely on others. This level of reliance multiplies as technology advances.

28. Mention the characteristics of a simple society.

Ans: The characteristics of a simple society are:

(a) Simple societies are small in scale in terms of population, area, and the variety of social interactions.

(b) In contrast to complex societies, simple societies have a simple economy and simple technology. In simple societies, people have the same status rather than complex social stratification.

(c) Compared to complex societies, in simple societies the relationship based on kinship and locality are much more significant.

(d) Absence of writing or literature and any systematic art, science and theology.

29. Write down the characteristics of a complex society.

Ans: The characteristics of a complex society are:

(a) Simple societies are large in terms of population, area, and the variety of social interactions.

(b) In complex societies, occupations vary more. Hence, the specialization of work is also greater in such societies.

(c) In complex societies,high technology is used for more efficient tasks, such as manufacturing essential goods, house construction, and so on.

(d) The institutionalized form of education is an important characteristic of a complex society. Writing and literature are very much part of complex society.

(e) In a complex society, the economic system is complex and trade and commerce are also prevalent.

(f) Magic has less influence than in simple societies.

30. Make a comparison between complex and simple societies.

Ans: The comparison between complex and simple societies are: A complex society is one in which the social structure, religion, material aspects, and technological aspects are more complex or developed than in a simple society. In complex societies, occupations vary more. Hence, the specialization of work is also greater in such societies. The institutionalized form of education is an important characteristic of a complex society. Writing and literature are very much part of complex society. In complex societies, high technology is used for more efficient tasks, such as manufacturing essential goods, house construction, and so on. Magic has less influence than in simple societies. There is a systematic practice of art, science and religion etc. The economic system is complex and trade and commerce are also prevalent. Transport and communication system are developed in complex societies, Radio, television, computers, the internet, etc. are used more as the mode of communication. As the transportation and communication systems are developed, the rate of change is also greater in complex societies. Economic life is not self-sufficient, so the division of labour is also greater. The use of money is more common.

On the other hand, A community that has fewer people and the economic and technical aspects are simple or not developed, is known as a simple society. Simple societies are small in scale in terms of population, area, and the variety of social interactions. They have a simple economy and simple technology. In simple societies, people have the same status rather than complex social stratification. In Simple societies the relationship based on kinship and locality are much more significant. Absence of writing or literature and any systematic art, science and theology. The people of a simple society are culturally homogenous and pass their culture to the next generation. People in simple societies live in remote, inaccessible, and underdeveloped areas. At present, a handful of simple societies exist that are aloof from the outside world. The political and judicial departments are not separate. Generally, the elderly people of a simple manage the society and are entrusted with the judiciary activities.

Social ruke, customs, the economy, and technology are so intertwined in a simple society that they cannot be studied separate.In simple society, nature and the soul are worshipped. The influence of religion and magic is greater in a simple society. Economic life is self-sufficient in simple societies. Money is not commonly used and the barter system is generally prevalent in a simple society.

31. What are the distinctions between rural and urban cultures?

Ans: The distinctions between rural and urban cultures are:

32. Write the characteristics of the social group.

Ans: The characteristics of the social group are: 

(a) Reciprocal relationship: When two or more individuals have a reciprocal relationship, then a social group may be formed. The reciprocal relationship of individuals is an essential criterion for forming a social group.

(b) We feeling: It is expected that the members of a social group should have the feelings of ‘we are of the same group’. In the other words, the members of a social group have “we feelings” , they helped each other and generally, the happiness or sorrow of other members of the group is shared collectively.

(c) Shared interests and ideals: A group has shared interests and ideals. A common interest drives a group’s formation, development, and continuation. When they come together, it’s to pursue their shared interests.

(d) Feelings of unity: The group’s members are consistently brought together by a sense of unity and a sense of sympathy.

(e) Similar behavioural patterns: For the sake of pursuing shared interests, group members act similarly.

(f) Group norms: Just as the law is necessary for the state, every group also has its own set of rules or norms that its members are expected to abide by. These expectations are expressed as “codes and conduct”.

33. Mention the rules for social group formation.

Ans: The rules for social group formation are:

(a) Social groups based on kinship: The members of a family, a lineage, a clan, or a moiety are relatives or have kinship relationships with each other. Therefore, such social groups are based on kinship.

(b) Locality- based social units: Locality- based social groups include villages and hamlets.

The people living in a village or a neighborhood have some duty and obligation towards the place and the people of that area. Maintaining peace and security and working for the development of that place and its people are social responsibilities of the members. These are their common interests. Such social groups are also found in urban areas. They work for the development of their locality and also work as the pressure group for the development of roads, water supply, sewage disposal, etc. and create pressure on the municipality.

(c) Social groups based on social stratification: Social groups based on social stratification include caste and class. Hindus are divided into Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, Sudras, and untouchables according to the caste system. These social groups formed on the basis of class are common in western societies. People in western societies often belong to one of the three social classes: the wealthy, the middle class and the lower class.

(d) Social groups based on political power: In simple societies, there are some social groups based on political authority, similar to the many political organisations seen in complex societies. There are two social groupings among the Notes in Arunachal Pradesh: the Lowangjat and the Sanajat. The position of a chief is traditional, and the chief is always of lowangjat, according to their traditional political structure. The Sanajat, who are regarded as commoners, have a lower social rank than the chief and the members of his family. There are three groups among the Lakers of Mizoram: royal families; nobles; and commoners. Only members of the royal families are selected to serve as chief. In judicial matters, the nobles support them.

(e) Social group based on occupation: People who share the same occupation tend to create social groupings. In Assam, there are two pot- making groups know as Kumar and Hira. Their distinctive names are the results of the slightly different pottery- making techniques that they use. The fishing community’s social group is another example. People who manufacture weapons are not permitted to coexist with other occupational communities in a few African societies. In complex societies, there are also social groups based on occupations. For example, the city bus association, auto rickshaw association, teacher’s association, etc. 

(f) Religious or magical social group: Adherents of the same religion form social groups for the acceptance, proclamation, and dissemination of that religion. Examples include social organisations like the Buddhist Association, Christian Missionary Association, and Sanskar  Sangha .

34. Explain two social groups with examples.

Ans: Do yourself.

35. Write about the distinctive features of a community.

Ans: The distinctive features of a community are:

(a) Group of people: A community is a group of individuals. We refer to the community as when a group of people live together in such a way that they share the fundamental conditions of common life.

(b) Definite territory: A significant characteristic of a community is that the people of a community occupy a definite land area. Sharing of the same locality is an important characteristic of a community.

(c) Community Sentiment: A sense of belonging together is referred to as community sentiment. The people of a community generally have a common language, value system, aim, and philosophy of life, “We feelings” is an important criterion of a community.

(d) Homogeneity: There is the homogeneity of rules and regulations, language, behaviour, material possessions, etc. among the individuals of a community. If there is a lack of this homogeneity in a group of people, it can not be said to be a community.

(e) Permanency: Regardless of size, a community is a stable social group. Communities are never created with a specific goal in mind, and temporary goals as created by an association.

(f) Natural or Spontaneous Growth: A Community that emerged on its own. A person is born into a community, naturally adopts that community as his home, and continues to live there. Thus, a community develops through a natural process. A community emerges when a group of people reside in a favorable location and their degree of resemblance and also their reciprocity increases.

36. Write about the characteristics of the social institution.

Ans: The characteristics of the social institution are:

(a) Social institutions are universal. Some customs, folkways, and mores govern all societies. Hence, all societies also have social institutions.

(b) Social institutions are formed to fulfil collective objectives.

(c) All institutions have distinct behavioural patterns that are shaped by specific doctrines, rules, and regulations.

(d) The members abide by the rules and regulations of the social organisation compulsorily.

(e) An institution depends on the collective work of the members.

(f) Social institutions are a measure of social control. The institution controls the social behaviour of man and maintains the peace and discipline of society.

37. Write about the nature of family.

Ans: The nature of family are:

(a) The family has existed in all societies of the world. In every community, a family serves as the basic unit for a child’s eventual social integration into society through the process of socialization. To put it simply, every person belongs to a certain family. A family is a universal social unit or institution since it exists in all societies throughout the universe.

(b) A family is a fundamental unit of society, which rests upon psychological satisfaction. Members of a family share love and affection, mutual help and cooperation, and act as path determines for one another in order to survive in society.

(c) A family teaches its members to lead lives in an institutionalised manner. The members of a family raise a child to grow into an individual with a healthy and sound body and mind.

(d) Every individual family aptly contributes to the formation of a society. The social role of a family is thus noteworthy in a society.

(e) Just as a family plays a significant role in the socialisation process of an individual, likewise, every member of a family has their own duties and responsibilities towards the family.

(f) Each family is a part of society. Hence, a family has to maintain and in the traditionally accepted norms and values of society.

38. Mention the primary as well as universal functions of the family.

Ans: The primary as well as universal functions of the family are:

(a) Biological functions: 

The chief biological functions of a family are: In order to maintain the continuity of human society, a family regulates reproductive activity. The socially accepted family unit takes the necessary steps to have offspring. The three primary necessities of man are food, clothing, and shelter. One of the main functions of a family is to provide food and clothes as well as shelter for its members. 

(b) Psychological Functions: An emotional relationship of shared love and affection, as well as help and cooperation, binds family members together. Parent-child relationships; brother- brother; brother-sister relationships and husband-wife relationships; etc. are all incredibly strong. In moments of joy and grief, family members aid and support one another.

(c) Regulations of sexual relations: The sexual need is a human instinct, if it is not regulated in a channelized manner, chaos, finds its place in society. As a result, the society supports the institutionalization of a sexual relations between a husband and wife in a family. Just as a family aids in sexual unions, it regulates the sexual relations among the familial ties of mother- father, brother- sister, uncle -aunt, and so forth. Through socialisation, the family forms the idea of relationships.

(d) Child rearing and care: A human in front is incapable of caring by themselves. A child needs nurturing and care for a considerable amount of time. Generally, the elderly members of a family perform the task of raising and caring of a children from birth till they become independent. Therefore, nearing and caring of children is one of the important roles of a family.

39. Write about the traditional functions of the family.

Ans: The traditions functions of the family are:-

(a) Economic function: The economic functions of a family encompasses arrangements of earings, division of labour, and maintainance and are of properties.

A family is regarded as the centre of economic pursuits because it is the family which enables its members to become capable of earning. Moreover, fulfillment of other needs such as shelter, clothing and so forth are arranged in a family itself.

There is a division of labour in a family. Generally, the men are found to be engaged with the work outside the home whereas the women carry out all the household chores. However, as a result of changes in the present societies the womenfolk are also engaged in different works outside their households. Yet there is a distinct division of labour based on age and sex among the members of a family.

Every family owns some property at its disposal, such as a house, cultivated land, agricultural implements, ornaments, clothes, household equipment, money, etc. The family has a very important function in taking care of and maintaining all these properties as well as their suitable distribution among the members of the family.

(b) Social functions: A family is the smallest social unit in society. As such, it has been playing a significant role in exercising certain social functions. 

Some of the essential social functions of a family are:

A family establishes a social status for among its members. The caste, class, and religion of an individual are determined on the basis of a family’s caste, class, or religion. Through the process of socialisation, a child learns family’s code and conduct, values, attitudes, and behaviours since childhood. 

Additionally, a family determines and upholds a person’s views and behaviours as per the existing social norms. Because of the family’s clear intervention, social legacy, standards, an values are generally passed down through the family.

(c) Selection of life partner: The necessity of selecting a marriage partner is regarded as crucial decision making of an individual, mate in order to maintain the continuity of creation. Family plays an important role in this regard and helps in finding a life partner or getting married. In general, a person meets their life partner at an appropriate age as per social norms with the active role and participation of family members.

(d) Religious function: Imparting religious education to the members of a family is another key function of the family. The religion of the parents in the religion of the children. The younger members of a family learn not only about religious rites and rituals, attitudes and behaviours, but also receive moral education from their elders.

(e) Cultural function: A family helps in preserving cultural heritage of the society. By providing education about one’s own distinctive culture to its members, a family helps in preserving the cultural continuity of the society.

(f) Recreational function: Recreation and entertainment are very essential aspects of human life which gives relief to human being. Family makes arrangements for various social festivals and functions, religious performances, and the likes, and thus makes provisions for recreation and enjoyment among themselves.

40. What distinguishing characteristics allow the families to be distinguished?

Ans:  Do yourself.

41. Write about the different types of families based on residence.

Ans: The different types of families based on residence are:

(a) Patrilocal family: In a patrilocal family the newly wed couple occupy or residence in groom’s father’s house after the wedding. In patriarchal family it is very common.

(b) Matrilocal family: In a matrilocal family, after marriage, the married couple resides with wife’s family. The bride is not supposed to leave her parental house. This type of family is observed among the Khasis, Garos, etc.

(c) Matri- Patrilocal: In some societies, after marriage, for a certain period, the married couple live in the bride’s residence and then, after some time, generally after the birth of the first child, they shift to groom’s father’s residence. Such type of family is called a matri-patrilocal family. Among the Chenchus, matri- patrilocal families are found.

42. Write about the different types of families formed on the basis of marriage.

Ans: The different types of families formed on the basis of marriage are:

(a) Monogamous family: A nuclear or single-unit family is a monogamous family. It results from a monogamous marriage between a single man with a single woman alive. A monogamous family comprises of husband, wife, and their children.

(b) Polygynous family: A man with his several wives and their children constitute a polygynous family. It is prevalent among the Kulin Brahmin community of Bangladesh, polygynous families are also found among the Indian Muslim community as well as among the Konya Nagas of Nagaland.

(c) Polyandrous family: An woman with her several husbands and their children, constitute a polygynous family. The Todas and Nayars of South India have this type of family.

43. Write a few distinctive features of a joint family.

Ans: A few distinctive features of a joint family are:

(a) Large size: The size of a joint family is usually large. Because is such  a family, three or four generations as well as some other closely related kin may live together. Therefore, the size of the family automatically become large.

(b) Common house or campus: Members of a joint family live in a common house. However, they may also live in several closely situated houses on the same campus.

(c) Common kitchen: Food is prepared in a common kitchen for the members of a joint family. Even though they may live in separate houses on a common campus, they share a common kitchen and enjoy the food cooked in it.

(d) Common economic unit: The earnings and expenditures of a joint family are used for the benefit and maintenance of all the family members. In matters of income generation, a collective endeavour is noticed among them. Especially among the agriculture-based joint families, in the activities right from the sowing of seeds to the reaping of the harvest, the contribution of the family members is noteworthy. Furthermore, economic cooperation and the division of labour are prominent features.

(e) Joint property: The ownership, as well as the acquisition of money and property, is a joint endeavour in such as a family. The head of the family, usually becomes the custodian of family property, which may be disbursed by him at times of need of the family members.

(f) Cooperative organization: The main basis of a joint family is the collective thinking and fulfillment of duties of obligations. If there is no cooperation and feeling of collectiveness among the members of a joint family, the foundation of the family is weakened and there are chances of the breakdown of such a family.

44. Mention three merites and three demerits of a joint family.

Ans: Three merits of a joint family are:

(a) Stability: The number of members in a nuclear family is small, and so the existence of such a family may be jeopardised due to factors like marriage- separation or loss due to death. But in a joint family, despite the loss or absence of any one of the members, the family’s essence continues to remain the same.

(b) Ensures economic progress: The need for food, clothing and shelter is the primary stage of economic progress. If these needs are not fulfilled people cannot offer their able contribution towards the progress of the country or community. In a joint family system even if a family member is not able to contribute economically or contribute less, his/her basic needs are always fulfilled.

(c)  Division of labour: Unlike in a nuclear family, the responsibilities of managing the affairs of the family are not born by a single member in a joint family. On the basis of the ability and competence of each of the family members, there is a division of labour. Men, women, and children collectively accomplish the work and activities of the family. In agriculture- based joint families generally. The family members usually do all the agricultural activities with mutual help and cooperation.

And three demerits of a joint family are:

(a) Shelter for idleness: A joint family, to some extent, is a shelter for idle members. I’m such a family, sometimes certain members show a sense of self- denial towards work, as they feel that even if they do not work, their basic needs would be fulfilled through the earnings of the other family members. Such individuals tend to generally become lazy and idle. In a joint family, most of the time, only a few members beat the responsibilities and take care of the family with their enduring hard work. While the lazy few continue to spend their days doing nothing.

(b) Hindrance in personality development: The joint family system sometimes hampers the overall personality development of an individual. In such families the young members grow under various rules and regulations and strict control of the elders. Under such circumstances, youths receive fewer opportunities to express their thoughts and opinions. Therefore, hindrance occurs in the overall personality development of an individual in a joint family.

(c) The source of quarrels: There are chances of quarrels due to various causes in a joint family. The unequal economic contribution of members, the distribution of property, differences of opinion between the elderly and younger members, the upbringing and education of the children of nuclear families within a joint family may be the prince causes of conflict within joint family.

Additional Questions

1. Write in short:

(a) What is called socio-cultural anthropology?

Ans: The branch of anthropology that reveals the distribution and development of various cultures and societies with the help of scientific data collected is called socio-cultural anthropology.

(b) Write the term “society”?

Ans: The term “society” refers to a particular group, such as the Adivasi society, the Harijan society, etc.

(c) Name the book written by Sorokin and Zimmerman?

Ans: The book written by Sorokin and Zimmerman is “Principles of Rural-Urban Sociology”.

(d) Define institution?

Ans: Institution can be defined as a set of inter-woven folkways, mores and laws built around one or more functions.

(e) Define Lineage?

Ans: A group of tribe originating from an ancestor which is not mythical may be called a lineage.

(f) Define Phratry?

Ans: The Greek word “phrater”, which means “brother”, is termed in English as “phratry”. Phratry is also thought of as a group of brother, to which serval clans join together.

2. Write in long:

(a) Write the characteristics features of urban society?

Ans: The characteristics features of urban society are:

(i) Urban society consists of a comparatively larger population and higher population density than rural society.

(ii) People belonging to different caste, tribes, classes, and religions live in an urban society. This is way the culture of urban society is diversified.

(iii) Furthermore, urban life is very fast; people get lesson for oneself and family. Sometimes people in sn urban society may feel a sense of loneliness and a loss of identity in lie.

(iv) Daily life in urban society is dynamic, and social relationships are mostly temporary. For various reasons, people’s geographical and social dynamism is greater in urban areas. People’s livelihoods constantly changes in such areas. People’s livelihoods constantly changes in such areas.

(v) Relationships in urban societies are not generally based on kinship; they develop certain other relationships which are not found to be formally polite rather than impersonal and simple friendship-based.

(b) Write the characteristics features of rural society?

Ans: The characteristics features of rural society are:

(i) The source of livelihood in rural society is mainly agriculture -based. Most of the members of rural society are implicitly associated with agricultural activities. The utilization of modern technologies and implements in agriculture is low. They are firm believers in fate. During times of natural calamities such as floods and drought all the people of a rural society face similar adversity.

(ii) The density of population in rural society is less. The division of rural society is based on religion and the caste system.

(iii) To some extent differences between social status and social prestige are seen in rural society. People owning numerous land properties generally receive a higher status in a rural society. Moreover, based on the caste system, status formation is also found among differences in social prestige based on caste division are evident as well.

(iv) In Indian rural society, the families offer cooperation to each other in the time of troubles and problems, rites-rituals, festivals and functions. However, sometimes conflict arises due to trivial matters among the people of the villages. 

(v) Rural society is primarily family- centric. Responsibilities of family and duties occupy a key position. Family and social interests are more clear than individual interests.

(c) Write about the different types of families based on descent?

Ans: The different types of families based on descent are:

(i) Patriarchal Family: A family in which the father, husband, or an elderly male member is the head of the family or where such males enjoy superior authority is called a patriarchal family. In this type of family, the children enjoy the affiliation to their father’s skin. Apart from the Santhal, Lodha, Toda, and some of the other tribal communities of India, most of the families I such communities are patriarchal.

(ii) Matriarchal Family: The family is which the descent or authority is vested upon a woman or mother, such a family is called a matriarchal family. In a matriarchal family, the decision- making and authority rest upon the eldest female member of the family. According to Maclver and Page even though in a matriarchal family the authority lies with the women the actual system of authority is seen in the hands of the male folk only. The Khasi and Garo tribes have matriarchal families.

(d) Write about the different types of families based on form?

Ans: The different types of families based on form are:

(i) Nuclear or single-unit family: A family that consists of a married couple and their unmarried children is called a nuclear family. Adopted children may also be a part of a nuclear family. Such a family is known by different names. Such as, basic or immediate family.

A nuclear family, according to Talcott Parsons, is an isolated family because the members of such a family share a very close bondo with each other. It is a very common family type found in Indian society.

(ii) Joint family: A joint family comprises of a parents and their unmarried and married children who share a common kitchen and live under the same roof. In India Hindu society, joint families are very common. In a joint family, generally, three generations live together in one household.

(iii) Extended family: An extended family consists of parents, their children and other relatives, either from father’s side or mother’s side. In a patriarchal society the other relative may include father’s brother, sister etc.

(e) Write the  differences between lineage and family?

Ans: The differences between lineage and family are:

(i) The lineage is a unilateral descent group,  Whereas family is a bilateral descent group.

(ii) Members of a family may live together in the same household, but members of a lineage do not live in the same household.

(iii) A lineage is consists of both living and dead members, but a family considers only the living ones as its members.

(iv) One of the main functions of a family is the upbringing and socialisation of children, but lineage is not associated with this function.

(v) A family is an economic unit, and economic cooperation among family members is mandatory; however, economic cooperation among lineage members is optional.

(vi) Members of a lineage are related through blood relationships, but in a family along with members related by blood relationships, people related through marital ties and dependency or adoption are also included.

(vii) A family is a rigid exogamous group, whereas lineage is a basic exogamous group.

(viii) A family is the smallest unit of society, while a lineage is a larger unit.

(f) Write a short note on sib or clan?

Ans: A sib or clan is a larger descent group of extensive horizons than a lineage. Members of this unilineal descent group believe that they are the descendants of a common ancestor. Since they have descended from a common ancestor they believe in the existence of blood relationships among its members. Like a lineage, sib or clan is also of two types: paternal and maternal clan. 

Although people tend to accept clan names by birth, in some societies clan names of married women are changed, Among Hindu women are affiliated to their husband’s clan after marriage. Most of the communities of the world have the existence of clans and these clan names are acquired at birth and retained throughout their lifetime. There is the infinite influence of clans among the primitive groups and tribal communities. There are twelve clans among the Santhals. Likewise, most of the tribes possess clans. But it does not exist among the Andamanese. Several indigenous groups of America also do not have clans. Therefore, the clan is not universal like that of family or lineage yet its existence is found very prominent.

(g) Write the characteristics features of clan?

Ans: The characteristics features of clan are:

(i) Unilateral Descent group: An unilateral clan always regulates unilateral relationships. A clan may be paternal or maternal, which means clans relates to only one descent line.

(ii) Single ancestor: Members of a clan believe in the origin of a single ancestor. That ancestor may be actual or mythical.

(iii) Exogamous group: It is believed that there is a blood relationship among the members of a clan as they believe that they are the descendants of a common ancestor. That is why marriage among the children of a similar clan is prohibited. In most societies, marriage within the same clan is a taboo or social crime. Youths engaged in such marriages are ostracized from society. Most of the time, the punishment for such a crime was the death penalty. For instance, the Noches of Arunachal Pradesh used to slaughter such offenders into pieces.

(iv) Symbol of clan or totem: In several cases, particularly among the clans of tribal communities, there is a symbol of clan called totem. Members of a clan believe to be connected with these totems. They believe to have originated from these totems or clan symbols. Some of them even accept that these totems helped their ancestors in specific ways. The totems are of different kinds. A totem may either be a particular tree an animal, or bird, hill, mountain or else the sun or moon. All members of a clan just offer respect to totems. There is a clan named ‘Kangaroo’ among an indigenous community of Mid-Australia. There is also a clan with the name of an Emu bird. Among the Koch-Rabhas of Assam, some clans are believed to be originated from catfish, porcupines etc. This is why members of such clans of the Rabha community do not kill or consume these particular animals. People belonging to the Kangaroo totem gather once every year at an auspicious place and pray for the better breeding of the Kangaroo animal. Only the male member of the clan, however, take part in such a ritual.

(g) Write about  the different types of Clans?

Ans: The different types of Clans are:

(A) Patrilineal clan: A clan which reckons descent through paternal line is called a patrilineal clan.

(B) Matrilineal clan: It consists of descent traced through maternal tine. 

Based on the features of its composition, a clan is divided into the following mentioned types:

(i) Ancestral clan: When the members of a clan believe that they have originated from a common ancestor and also believe that they are related to each other, such a clan is known as an ancestral clan. This ancestor may be a male or a female.

(ii) Totemic clan: When the members of a clan identify a general clan and consider it to be related to the totem of that clan, such a type of clan is called a totemic clan. These totems, or symbols of the clan, are also regarded as totemic Gods or deities. These totemic Gods may be of different kinds, such as birds and animals, trees and climbers, minerals, and even planets or stats. For instance, among the Santhal tribe, the existence of twelve such clans has been found. Member of the Hansdak clan of the Santhals consider the duck as their totem or totemic deity. It is prevalent Kol, Toda, Bhil, Gond, Rabha, etc.

(iii) Territorial clan: When the members of a clan associate themselves with a particular territory, such a type of clan is called a territorial clan. As such, the Maria Gond tribe of Central India introduced their clans in association with a particular village. Such villages are known as ‘bhum’. 

(h) Write the functions of a clan?

Ans: The functions of a clan are:

(i) Social function: Mutual help and cooperation among the fellow members of a clan is its social function. It is the responsibility of the other fellow members to protect and help another member of a clan in the time of need.

One of the important functions of a clan is to regulate sex through exogamy. That is marriage among the members of the same clan is strictly prohibited as the members are regarded as brothers and sisters. This is why members of the clan have to choose their partners outside of their clan, violation of which is heavily punishable.

(ii) Religious functions: Members of a clan perform various religious activities and functions for the sake of the clan’s safety and growth. Such religious functions are performed, particularly to appease the totemic Gods and deities. The clan had usually acts as the priest at such functions while the other members carry out the work of conducting the function, taking its expenditure, and so on.

(iii) Political function: The clans play a significant role in the governance of simple society which is vested on the head of clan. Most of the time, the clan heads, in association with the head of the lineages, formulate rules and legislation and works for the security of the clan members. Many times heads organize meetings and try to solve quarrels and conflicts among the clans. Various tribal councils includes clan heads as it important members. Such councils play significant role for solving the different internal and external issues of the clan as well as tribe.

(iv) Economic functions: The economic role of clan is mainly related to clan property. In many societies clan head plays the custodial role of landed property owned by a clan. Purchase, sale and use of such property is vested on permission of clan heads. Among the Notes of Tirap district in Arunachal Pradesh, selling of their land of people outside their needs approval of village council and clan heads. Such systems are also found among the Oraons. Among the pastoral tribes, the responsibilities for the protection of the pasture lands are rested on clans. Similarly, among the different tribes practicing slash and burn cultivation, clan heads distribute jhum lands tk the cultivators.

(i) Write the differences between Clan and Family?

Ans: The differences between Clan and Family are:

(i) The family is the smallest unit of society whereas clan is an association of several families, and hence, a clan is comparatively larger than a family in terms of members.

(ii) As an economic unit, the family is functional at all times and in all societies. A division of labour is seen among the members of a family, and there is upbringing and other mutual economic obligations among the members. Even though some degree of economic cooperation, rules and regulations, etc. are prevalent among the clans, it is not so visible like family.

(iii) The clans members occupy more territorial areas then a family.

(iv) Clans are recognised as unilateral descent group. In a family, relatives from both the father’s and mother’s sides are valued.

(v) Through the means of genealogy, the relationships among the members of a family may traced out easily. But considering the vastness of a clan, it is not easy to determine the genealogy of a clan.

(vi) Every family has its own religious activities and performances. But a clan sometimes performs some common religious function.

(vii) The family does not have any extensive political or administrative functions, but a clan perform certain important administration activities.

(viii) A family is universal, which means it exists in all societies of the world. But a clan’s presence is not found in every society. For example, the Andamanese do not have any clan.

3. Choose the correct answer: 

(a.) Who defined “Social Anthropology emphasizes a generalizing approach to human behaviour, characteristics of the social or behavioural sciences, with the focus on particular problems relating to culture, society and personality?”

(i) S.C. Dube.

(ii) F.M. Kessing.

(iii) N.N. Srinivas.

(iv) D.N. Majumder.

Ans: (ii) F.M. Keesing.

(b) Who defined “Social Anthropology is that part of cultural anthropology, which devotes it’s primary attention to the study of social structure and religion rather than material aspect of culture?”

(i) S.C. Dube.

(ii) N.N. Srinivas.

(iii) F.M. Kessing.

(iv) D.N. Majumder.

Ans: (iv) D.N. Majumder.

(c) Who defined “S social group is a system of social interactions?”

(i) Green.

(ii) Maclver and Page.

(iii) Johnson.

(iv) Ogburn and Nimkoff.

Ans: (iii) Johnson.

(d) Who defined “Society is system of usages and procedures, authority and mutual aid, of many groupings and divisions, of controls of human behaviours and liberties?”

(i) Ginsberg

(ii) D.N. Majumder

(iii) Maclver and Page

(iv) S.C. Dude.

Ans: (iii) Maclver and Page.

(e) How many views social scientists have been defining society?

(i) Two. 

(ii) Three.

(iii) Four.

(iv) Five.

Ans: (i) Two.

(f) Who defined a rural community is a cluster of people living within a narrow territorial radius who share a common way of life?

(i) S.C. Dude.

(ii) A.W. Green.

(iii) D.N. Majumder.

(iv) F.M. Kessing.

Ans: (ii) A.W. Green.

(g)  Who defined “A social group is any collection of human beings who are brought into human relationships with one another?”

(i) Green.

(ii) Johnson.

(iii) Maclver and Page.

(iv) Ogburn and Nimkoff.

Ans: (iii) Maclver and Page.

(h) When did Sorokin and Zimmerman public their book, “Principles of Rural-Urban Sociology?”

(i) 1929

(ii) 1829

(iii) 1892

(iv) 1992

Ans: (i) 1929

(i) Who defined “A group is an aggregate of individuals which persists in time which has one or more interests or activities in common and which is organized?”

(i) Maclver and Page.

(ii) Johnson.

(iii) Ogburn and Nimkoff.

(iv) Green.

Ans: (iv) Green.

(j) Who defined “Wherever two or more individuals come together and influence one another, they may be said to constitute a social group?”

(i) Ogburn and Nimkoff.

(ii) Green.

(iii) Johnson.

(iv) Maclver and Page.

Ans: (i) Ogburn and Nimkoff.

(k) Who defined “An Institution is a set of folkways and mores integrated around a principal function of a society?”

(i) Davis.

(ii) Maclver and Page.

(iii) Young and Mack opined.

(iv) Johnson.

Ans: (iii) Young and Mack opined.

(l) Who defined “A group based on material relations, rights and duties of parenthood, common habitation and reciprocal relations between parents and children?”

(i) Maclver and Page.

(ii) Robert Lowie.

(iii) Burgess and Locke.

(iv) Ralph Linton.

Ans: (ii) Robert Lowie.

(m) How many types of family are there?

(i) Two.

(ii) Five.

(iii) Four.

(iv) Three.

Ans: (ii) Five.

(n) Who defined “A group that involves marriage, rights and duties of parents and children”?”

(i) Ralph Linton.

(ii) Maclver and Page.

(iii) George Peter Murdock.

(iv) Burgess and Locke.

Ans: (i) Ralph Linton.

(o) How many types of family are there on the basis of inheritance?

(i) Four.

(ii) Three.

(iii) Five.

(iv) Two.

Ans: (iv) Two.

(p) Who defined “joint family is simply the common ownership of the means of production and the common enjoyment of the fruits of labour?”

(i) Iravati Karve.

(ii) K.M. Kapadia.

(iii) Chandrasekhar.

(iv) Maclver and Page.

Ans: (iii) Chandrasekhar.

(q) How many types of family are there on the basis of residence?

(i) Six.

(ii) Two.

(iii) Three.

(iv) Five.

Ans: (i) Six.

(r.) Who defined “joint family is a group, formed not only of a couple and their children, but also other relations either from father’s or from mother’s side?”

(i) Iravati Karve.

(ii) Maclver and Page.

(iii) K.M. Kapadia.

(iv) Chandrasekhar.

Ans: (iii) K.M. Kapadia.

(s) When did Hindu Marriage Act pass?

(i) 1922

(ii) 1955

(iii) 1954

(iv) 1855

Ans: (ii) 1955

(t) How many clans are there among the Santhals?

(i) Four.

(ii) Seven.

(iii) Six.

(iv) Twelve.

Ans: (iv) Twelve.