The Secret of the Totem

by Andrew Lang

"The Secret of the Totem" by Andrew Lang is an anthropological study written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the origins and implications of totemism, particularly within the context of early human societies, with a focus on Australian tribes. Lang aims to explore how totemism relates to the structure and evolution of social organizations, examining the complexities of tribal regulations, marriage prohibitions, and cultural practices among indigenous peoples. The opening of the book outlines its purpose and foundation, establishing that it is a continuation of earlier studies on human social origins, particularly in connection with the theories of noted scholars. Lang discusses various perspectives on the origins of totemism, acknowledging the contributions of others while positioning his theories against them. He highlights the importance of names and their mystical relationships to the groups they represent, examining how totems serve as both identifiers and markers of social structure. Through this examination, Lang sets the stage for a detailed exploration of the intricate ties between totemism, kinship, and the evolution of social laws among primitive tribes.