Riddles: expressive models of interrogation

Ethnology • Vol/Iss. 10 • Published In 1971 • Pages: 509-533 •

By Roberts, John M., Forman, Michael L.

Abstract

This paper examines riddles and posits that they are expressive models of oral interrogation. Three exploratory studies are reviewed. Empirical analysis suggests that riddles are associated with variables such as political integration, games of strategy, and responsibility training.

Samples
Sample Used	Coded Data	Comment
HRAF Collection of Ethnography (paper/fiche)
Ethnographic Atlas (EA)

Hypotheses (6)
Hypothesis	Supported
"Riddles appear to be associated with high political integration" (515)	Supported
"The more elaborate the jurisdictional hierarchy, the more likely riddles" (515)	Supported
"Judicial oaths and ordeals are associated with [riddles]" (516)	Supported
". . . there is an association between the presence of games of strategy and the presence of riddles" (516)	Supported
"There is also an association [between riddles] and domestication [of animals]" (516)	Supported
". . . riddling is associated with strong responsibility training . . ." (516)	Supported

Documents and Hypotheses Filed By: mas Amelia Piazza

Riddles: expressive models of interrogation

Ethnology • Vol/Iss. 10 • Published In 1971 • Pages: 509-533 • Cite

By Roberts, John M., Forman, Michael L.

Abstract

Samples

Hypotheses (6)

Ethnology • Vol/Iss. 10 • Published In 1971 • Pages: 509-533 •