The evolutionary significance of incest rules

Ethnology and Sociobiology • Vol/Iss. 11 • Published In 1990 • Pages: 113-129 •

By Thornhill, Nancy Wilmsen

Abstract

This article investigates incest rules, proposing that they are instituted by rulers as a way of preventing wealth-concentration among non-ruling families. Three hypotheses are derived and supported with empirical analysis. Two alternative evolutionary hypotheses are discussed and dismissed by the author.

Samples
Sample Used	Coded Data	Comment
Standard Cross Cultural Sample (SCCS)

Hypotheses (4)
Hypothesis	Supported
Extension of inbreeding rules will be associated with social stratification (116-117, 120).	Supported
Harshness of punishment for inbreeding will be associated with social stratification (116-117, 121).	Supported
Rule-makers will be exempt from inbreeding rules (116-117, 122).	Supported
Inbreeding will be negatively associated with pathogen risk (125).	Not Supported

Documents and Hypotheses Filed By: Kate Cummings Amelia Piazza

The evolutionary significance of incest rules

Ethnology and Sociobiology • Vol/Iss. 11 • Published In 1990 • Pages: 113-129 • Cite

By Thornhill, Nancy Wilmsen

Abstract

Samples

Hypotheses (4)

Ethnology and Sociobiology • Vol/Iss. 11 • Published In 1990 • Pages: 113-129 •