Kinship and Social Organisation

by W. H. R. (William Halse Rivers) Rivers

"Kinship and Social Organisation" by W. H. R. Rivers is a scholarly work written in the early 20th century. This book consists of lectures that delve into the intricate connections between kinship terminology and various forms of social organization, particularly examining the classificatory system of relationship. Rivers aims to provide insights into how these terms are shaped by social conditions, particularly through the lens of marriage practices among different cultures. The opening of the book introduces the main topic by outlining Rivers' objective to explore the relationships between kinship terminology and social organization. He begins by discussing the classificatory system of relationship, demonstrating how certain cultures apply relational terms broadly to classes of individuals rather than specific individuals. Rivers sets the stage for a detailed exploration into the historical and anthropological implications of these systems by referencing various scholars, including Lewis Morgan, who contributed to the understanding of kinship. Through this theoretical framework, the text intends to illustrate that the terminology used in different cultures is not arbitrary, but instead is profoundly influenced by social structures and dynamics.