Alternative predictors of polygyny

Cross-Cultural Research • Vol/Iss. 19 • Published In 1984 • Pages: 1-23 •

By Ember, Melvin

Abstract

"This paper describes how the "sex-ratio" explanation of polygyny compares with some alternative, supposedly causal explanations. The results suggest that polygyny is best predicted by two statistically independent factors--high male mortality in warfare…and delayed age of marriage for men."

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

Hypotheses (4)
Hypothesis	Supported
Delayed age at marriage in men will be associated with polygyny (10).	Supported
Controlling on the presence/absence of high male mortality in warfare, delayed age at marriage will be associated with polygyny (11).	Partially supported
Controlling on age at marriage, the presence/absence of male mortality in warfare will be associated with polygyny (13).	Partially supported
Societies where there is at least a seven-year discrepancy in age at marriage or high male mortality in warfare will tend to have polygyny (13).	Supported

Documents and Hypotheses Filed By: Jessie Cohen Megan Farrer abbe.mccarter

Alternative predictors of polygyny

Cross-Cultural Research • Vol/Iss. 19 • Published In 1984 • Pages: 1-23 • Cite

By Ember, Melvin

Abstract

Samples

Hypotheses (4)

Cross-Cultural Research • Vol/Iss. 19 • Published In 1984 • Pages: 1-23 •