Toward a theory of the status of women

American Anthropologist • Vol/Iss. 75 • Published In • Pages: 1682-1700 •
By Sanday, Peggy Reeves

Abstract

This study tests an ecological-economic theory of female contribution to subsistence, focusing on subsistence type as a potential correlate. In an exploratory analysis, 28 independent variables (not all listed below) are examined. The relationship between female contribution to subsistence and female status is also examined.

Samples

Sample Used Coded Data Comment
Ethnographic Atlas (EA)CombinationA subsample of 748 societies from the Ethnographic Atlas was used to investigate correlates of female contribution to subsistence. A sample of 12 societies was used to test the relationship between contribution and status.

Hypotheses (3)

HypothesisSupported
Explore relationship between 28 variables and female contribution to total subsistence (1683-1684).Partially supported
Agricultural type and intensity will be curvilinearly related to women's contribution to subsistence; women will contribute the least in societies without agriculture and with intensive agriculture (1691).Claimed supported
Female status will be associated with female contribution to subsistence (1685).Partially supported
Documents and Hypotheses Filed By: Kate Cummings  Tahlisa Brougham