An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth: a cross-cultural study of feuding

American Anthropologist • Vol/Iss. 67 • Published In • Pages: 1470-1482 •
By Otterbein, Keith F., Otterbein, Charlotte Swanson

Abstract

This study investigates the presence of feuding, arguing that a solely evolutionary or functional approach misses important inter-societal factors. Results indicate that while fraternal interest groups are associated with feuding, the presence of war and level of political integration also increase the likelihood of feuding.

Samples

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

Hypotheses (6)

HypothesisSupported
". . . societies with fraternal interest groups are more likely to have feuding than societies without fraternal interest groups" (1473)Supported
". . . societies with fraternal interest groups are more likely to have feuding than societies without fraternal interest groups" (1473-1474)Supported
". . . the higher the level of political complexity the less frequently feuding is found" (1476)Not Supported
"If political complexity has any influence on feuding, there should be a higher correlation between presence of fraternal interest groups and feuding in societies with a low level of political integration than in societies [with] a high level of political integration" (1476)Partially supported
". . . societies which frequently engage in war with their neighbors are less likely to have feuding than societies which have peaceful external relations" (1477)Not Supported
"It is only in societies with a high level of political integration that there are officials who have the power to intervene [to prevent feuding when the society is threatened by war]" (1478)Supported
Documents and Hypotheses Filed By: mas  Amelia Piazza