Ifugao Law
(In American Archaeology and Ethnology, Vol. 15, No. 1)
"Ifugao Law" by R. F. Barton is an ethnographic account written in the early 20th century. This publication delves into the legal system and customs of the Ifugao people, a group known for their intricate rice terraces in the Philippines. It examines the roots of Ifugao law, including its connection to customs and taboos, and explores topics ranging from family law and property rights to criminal law and social responsibilities. The opening of the work introduces the Ifugao culture, emphasizing its lack of formal political governance yet robust systems of customary law derived from taboos and social norms. It posits that, despite being labeled as "barbaric" by outsiders, the Ifugao people maintain relative peace and cohesion through their customary laws, which are crucial to their social fabric. Barton sets the stage for a thorough examination of the unique aspects of Ifugao law, including marriage contracts, property inheritance, and clan responsibilities, while situating these practices within a broader anthropological discourse on primitive societies.