What is the primary discipline that uses the term 'tribe' to categorize human social groups?

The predominant worldwide use of the term 'tribe' in English is within the discipline of anthropology. This usage refers to a category of human social group, though its definition is often debated among scholars.

How is the concept of a 'tribe' typically contrasted with other social and kinship groups in anthropology?

In anthropology, the concept of a tribe is often contrasted with other social and kinship groups by placing it hierarchically. It is generally considered larger than a lineage or clan, but smaller than a chiefdom, ethnicity, nation, or state. These terms themselves can also be subject to dispute.

What is the legal status of Native American tribes within the United States according to the provided text?

In the United States, Native American tribes are legally recognized as having 'domestic dependent nation' status. They maintain a government-to-government relationship with the federal government, signifying a degree of inherent sovereignty.

What is the origin of the English word 'tribe'?

The modern English word 'tribe' originates from Middle English 'tribu,' which itself derives from the Latin word 'tribus.' The Latin term is believed to stem from a Proto-Indo-European compound meaning 'rendered in three' or 'tripartite division.'

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, what are the possible origins of the Latin word 'tribus'?

The Oxford English Dictionary suggests that the Latin word 'tribus' may have originated either from borrowing from a Romance language like Old French 'tribu,' or directly from Latin itself. The Middle English plural 'tribuz' (circa 1250) might represent a direct borrowing from the Latin plural 'tribus.'

What is Elman Service's contribution to the classification of societies in anthropology?

Anthropologist Elman Service proposed a system of classification for societies across all human cultures, focusing on the evolution of social inequality and the role of the state. His system categorizes societies into four main types: hunter-gatherer bands, tribal societies with limited rank, stratified tribal societies led by chieftains (chiefdoms), and civilizations with complex hierarchies and governments.

Based on Elman Service's classification, what are the characteristics of the first category of societies?

The first category in Elman Service's classification consists of hunter-gatherer bands. These societies are generally described as egalitarian, meaning they typically lack significant social hierarchy or stratification.

How does Service's classification define tribal societies?

In Elman Service's classification, tribal societies are characterized by having some limited instances of social rank and prestige. This places them above egalitarian bands but below more stratified societies like chiefdoms.

What is the definition of a tribe as a political unit, according to the text?

A tribe is defined as a political unit formed from an organization of families, which can include clans and lineages. This organization is based on social or ideological solidarity among its members.

What factors can contribute to tribal membership?

Membership in a tribe can be based on a variety of factors, including kinship (like belonging to a clan), ethnicity or perceived race, language, shared dwelling place, political affiliation, religious beliefs, oral traditions, and cultural practices.

What did Morton Fried argue about the necessity of a tribal stage in societal evolution?

Morton Fried argued in 1967 that a tribal stage, as defined by scholars like Sahlins and Service, was not an absolute necessity in the transition from a single settlement to a complex state-structured polity. He suggested that tribalism could be a reaction to the formation of complex political structures rather than a required preliminary stage.

According to Morton Fried, how might tribalism arise?

Morton Fried suggested that tribalism could arise as a reaction to the formation of complex political structures. He posited that bands might organize into tribes as a means to resist the violence and exploitation often associated with early kingdoms and states.

When did the term 'tribe' begin to face significant controversy and deprecation in anthropology?

The term 'tribe' was commonly used in anthropology until the late 1950s and 1960s, after which it began to attract controversy and scholarly challenges regarding its utility as an analytical category.

What did J. Clyde Mitchell state about the scrutiny of the term 'tribe' in anthropology?

J. Clyde Mitchell noted in 1970 that the tribe, once a respected analytical category, had recently come under scrutiny. He attributed these doubts to the increasing involvement of peoples worldwide in political, economic, and social relationships with industrial nations, and to differing scholarly definitions of the term.

What characteristics did Morton Fried identify in tribes that challenged the traditional concept?

Morton Fried's 1975 study, 'The Notion of the Tribe,' highlighted that tribes often exhibit fluid boundaries, heterogeneity, and dynamism. He provided examples of tribes with members speaking different languages, practicing different rituals, or sharing leaders with other tribes, concluding they are not parochial entities.

Why is it difficult to apply a universal conceptual framework to the term 'tribe'?

It is difficult to apply a universal conceptual framework to the term 'tribe' because it attempts to encompass diverse cultures and peoples. This diversity leads different anthropologists to draw conflicting conclusions about the nature, structure, and practices of tribal societies.

What criticism did Martin van Bruinessen offer regarding the application of anthropological terms to Kurdish society?

Anthropologist Martin van Bruinessen argued that standard anthropological terms like 'tribe,' 'clan,' and 'lineage' acted as a 'straitjacket' that did not fit the social reality of Kurdistan. This illustrates the challenges of applying universal categories to specific cultural contexts.

What negative connotations has the term 'tribe' acquired?

The term 'tribe' has acquired negative connotations, similar to the word 'Indian,' that are associated with colonialism. This has contributed to its reduced usage in some academic circles.

How does Survival International distinguish between 'tribal' and 'indigenous' peoples?

Survival International emphasizes the distinction between 'tribal' and 'indigenous' peoples, noting that tribal peoples possess a special status acknowledged in international law. They also face unique problems in addition to those common to the broader category of indigenous peoples.

What has been the general trend for tribes in relation to modern state systems?

Few tribes today remain isolated from modern state systems. Many have lost their traditional functions, such as collecting tithes, administering justice, and defending territory, as these roles have been taken over by state institutions like taxation, law courts, and the military. This has often led to a decline in cultural identity for many tribes.

What are 'secondary' tribes according to Morton Fried's theory?

'Secondary' tribes, as proposed by Morton Fried, are not direct descendants of pre-state tribes but rather developed from pre-state bands. They are seen as modern products of state expansion, often formed to serve the interests of expanding states or to defend against them.

How might states encourage the formation of 'secondary' tribes?

States may encourage the formation of 'secondary' tribes to extend their administrative and economic influence into hinterlands where direct political control is costly. By requiring or encouraging people on their frontiers to form more centralized polities, states can facilitate the production of surpluses and taxes, and ensure leadership responsive to state needs.

What examples are given for tribes that developed due to state expansion?

The text provides the example of tribes in the United States and British India as instances where states encouraged the formation of more centralized polities. These communities were often labeled 'aboriginal tribes' by colonial powers.

How do bands form 'secondary' tribes as a defense against state expansion?

Bands can form 'secondary' tribes as a defensive strategy against state expansion by creating more clearly bounded and centralized polities. These new structures can generate surpluses to support a standing army for defense and establish leadership capable of coordinating economic and military activities.

What is the status of Native American tribes in North America regarding sovereignty?

Native American tribes in North America are considered sovereign nations. They have either retained their sovereignty or been granted legal recognition by the federal government, which acknowledges their inherent right to self-governance.

What makes Yemen notable in the context of tribal structures in the Arab world?

Yemen is notable as the most tribal nation in the Arab world. This is largely due to the significant influence of tribal leaders and their deep integration into various aspects of the Yemeni state.

Approximately how many tribes are estimated to exist in Yemen?

Estimates for the number of tribes in Yemen vary, with approximately 200 tribes being commonly cited. However, some reports suggest there may be more than 400 tribes in the country.

What was the context for the creation of 'Scheduled Tribes' (ST) in India?

India's Constituent Assembly debated special provisions for certain communities, referred to as 'Adibasi' or 'aboriginal.' Jaipal Singh, representing the Munda tribe, advocated for these provisions, leading to the creation of lists of communities deserving special protections, which became known as 'Scheduled Tribes' (ST).

What does the image caption describe regarding George Catlin's painting?

The image caption describes a painting by George Catlin from 1834 depicting a tribal war on the plains. It specifically shows Comanche warriors attempting to lance an Osage warrior.

What does the image caption reveal about Pashtuns?

The image caption indicates that Pashtuns in Afghanistan and Pakistan constitute the world's largest tribal society. It estimates their population at over 60 million people, comprising between 350 and 400 tribes and clans.

What does the map of 'uncontacted tribes' illustrate?

The map of 'uncontacted tribes' illustrates the geographical distribution of indigenous groups who remain isolated from the modern world, as depicted around the start of the 21st century.

What is the etymological connection between the Latin 'tribus' and Proto-Indo-European?

The Latin word 'tribus' is believed to derive from the Proto-Indo-European compound *'tri-dṽh₁u/o-', which signifies 'rendered in three' or 'tripartite division.' This suggests an ancient concept related to division or organization.

What does the term 'pantribal sodalities' refer to in the context of tribal organization?

Pantribal sodalities are mentioned as a form of leadership or organization within tribal structures. They represent groups that span across multiple tribes, potentially serving unifying or coordinating functions.

What does the term 'leveling mechanism' refer to in the context of social status within tribes?

A leveling mechanism, in the context of tribal societies, refers to social or cultural practices that work to reduce or prevent significant disparities in social status or wealth. These mechanisms help maintain a degree of egalitarianism, even within societies that might have some social ranking.

What is a 'big man' in anthropological terms, as mentioned in the text?

A 'big man' is a type of leader described in anthropological contexts, particularly in societies like those found in Papua New Guinea. These leaders often gain influence through personal charisma, generosity, and the ability to mobilize resources and followers, rather than through inherited status.

What is a 'segmentary lineage' in the context of tribal political organization?

A segmentary lineage is a form of social and political organization common in tribal societies. It structures groups based on kinship, where larger segments are composed of smaller, related segments, often used for political and social coordination.

What is the significance of 'customary law' in relation to tribes?

Customary law refers to the unwritten rules and norms that govern behavior and resolve disputes within a community. For tribes, customary law often plays a central role in maintaining social order and resolving conflicts, predating or existing alongside formal legal systems.

What is 'ritual warfare' as it relates to tribal societies?

Ritual warfare refers to conflicts between groups that are conducted with specific ceremonies, rules, or symbolic meanings, often distinct from warfare aimed solely at territorial conquest or resource acquisition. It can serve social or political functions within tribal contexts.

What does the term 'ethnicity' signify in relation to tribal groups?

Ethnicity, in the context of tribal groups, refers to a shared sense of identity based on common cultural, linguistic, ancestral, or national origins. It is one of the factors that can contribute to the formation and definition of a tribe.

What is a 'chiefdom' in the context of political organization, as contrasted with a tribe?

A chiefdom represents a form of political organization that is hierarchically larger and more complex than a tribe. Chiefdoms are typically characterized by hereditary leadership and a more centralized authority structure.

What is a 'petty kingdom' in relation to tribal and chiefdom structures?

A petty kingdom is a political entity that is generally considered larger and more complex than a chiefdom. It represents a level of political organization that typically surpasses that of tribal structures.

What is a 'house society' in anthropological terms?

A 'house society' is a type of social organization where prestige and social status are transmitted through 'houses,' which are corporate groups often centered around a lineage or a prominent family. This concept is distinct from simpler tribal structures.

What does the term 'theatre state' refer to in political anthropology?

A 'theatre state' is a concept in political anthropology used to describe states where political power and legitimacy are heavily projected and maintained through elaborate ceremonies, rituals, and displays. The example of 19th-century Bali is cited in relation to this concept.

What is the significance of 'legal anthropology' in understanding tribal societies?

Legal anthropology is a subfield that examines the role of law and legal systems in different societies, including tribal ones. It explores how rules, norms, and dispute resolution mechanisms function within these groups, often focusing on customary law.

What is 'state formation' in the context of anthropology?

State formation refers to the historical process by which political entities develop into states, characterized by centralized authority, defined territory, and monopoly over the legitimate use of force. This process is often contrasted with the development of tribal societies.

What is 'political economy in anthropology'?

Political economy in anthropology examines the interplay between political power, economic systems, and social structures within different societies. It analyzes how resources are controlled, distributed, and how economic activities influence political organization, including in tribal contexts.

What is the relevance of 'circumscription theory' to understanding tribal or state development?

Circumscription theory, in anthropology, offers explanations for how states emerge, often relating to environmental or social factors that limit population movement and encourage the development of more complex political structures. It is a concept relevant to understanding the evolution beyond tribal societies.

What is 'tribalism' as a concept in social science?

Tribalism refers to the state of being organized into or characterized by tribes. In social science, it can also describe a strong sense of loyalty and adherence to one's tribe or ethnic group, sometimes contrasted with broader national or political identities.

What is 'neotribalism'?

Neotribalism is a concept that describes the resurgence or formation of tribal-like social structures or identities in modern or postmodern societies. It suggests a return to smaller, more localized, and identity-based group affiliations.

What does the term 'stateless society' imply in relation to tribal structures?

A 'stateless society' is a society that lacks a centralized government or state apparatus. Many tribal societies are historically considered stateless, relying on kinship, segmentary lineages, or other forms of organization for governance and social order.

What is a 'tribal chief'?

A tribal chief is an individual who holds a leadership position within a tribe. The specific roles, powers, and legitimacy of a tribal chief can vary significantly depending on the particular tribal structure and cultural context.

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The Concept of Tribe

A Contested Term

The term "tribe" is employed across various contexts to denote a category of human social grouping. Predominantly within anthropology, its definition is subject to considerable debate. This contention arises from differing theoretical perspectives on social and kinship structures, as well as the challenges in applying the concept uniformly across the vast diversity of human societies.

Hierarchical Context

Anthropologists often contrast tribes with other social and kinship structures. Typically, a tribe is understood as hierarchically larger than a lineage or clan, but smaller than a chiefdom, ethnicity, nation, or state. It is important to note that these terms themselves are often subjects of dispute and redefinition.

Legal Recognition

In certain instances, tribes possess legal recognition and are granted a degree of political autonomy from national or federal governments. However, this legalistic application of the term can sometimes conflict with its anthropological definitions, highlighting the multifaceted nature of its usage.

United States Context

Within the United States, Native American tribes are legally recognized as having a "domestic dependent nation" status. This establishes a government-to-government relationship between these tribes and the federal government, underscoring a unique legal and political framework.

Etymology of "Tribe"

Linguistic Roots

The contemporary English term "tribe" originates from Middle English "tribu," which ultimately traces back to the Latin word "tribus." The precise etymological pathway suggests a possible borrowing from Old French "tribu" or a direct adoption from Latin, potentially influenced by the Latin plural "tribus."

Proto-Indo-European Origins

Linguists posit that the Latin "tribus" may derive from a Proto-Indo-European compound, *tri-dṽh₁u/o-, signifying a "tripartite division." This is supported by cognates in other ancient languages, such as Umbrian "trifu" (trinity, district) and Sanskrit "trīdhā" (threefold), indicating deep historical roots related to division or grouping.

Sociopolitical Classification

Service's Typology

Anthropologist Elman Service proposed a influential system for classifying human societies based on the evolution of social inequality and the role of the state. This framework categorizes societies into four primary types:

Bands: Small, generally egalitarian hunter-gatherer groups.
Tribal Societies: Characterized by limited social rank and prestige, often organized around kinship.
Chiefdoms: Stratified societies led by chieftains, with more centralized authority.
Civilizations: Societies with complex social hierarchies and organized, institutional governments.

Defining the Tribe

Within this framework, tribes are understood as political units formed by the organization of families, clans, and lineages. Membership is often based on a combination of factors including kinship, ethnicity, language, shared territory, religious beliefs, and common oral traditions or cultural practices.

Fried's Perspective

Anthropologist Morton Fried offered a contrasting view, suggesting that tribal structures may have emerged as a response to the pressures of early kingdoms and states. He argued that bands might organize into tribes specifically to resist the violence and exploitation inherent in more complex political systems, rather than representing a purely developmental stage.

Debate and Deprecation

Scrutiny and Utility

The term "tribe" has faced significant scrutiny within anthropology since the late 1950s and 1960s. Scholars have challenged its analytical utility due to the vast diversity of human societies and the often vague, fluid, and dynamic nature of tribal boundaries. As J. Clyde Mitchell noted, the term's meaning and application have been questioned as global interactions increased.

Fluid Boundaries

Morton Fried highlighted that tribal memberships often exhibit fluidity, heterogeneity, and dynamism. He provided examples where tribal members might speak different languages, practice varied rituals, or follow multiple leaders, challenging the notion of a simple, parochial definition. This complexity suggests that "tribe" may not always fit neatly as a universal analytical category.

Colonial Connotations

The term "tribe" carries negative connotations associated with colonialism. Scholars like Matthew Ortoleva have noted its parallels with terms like "Indian," suggesting that "tribe" can evoke historical power imbalances and imposed categorizations. Survival International emphasizes the distinction between "tribal" and "indigenous," noting the special status and unique problems faced by tribal peoples, often linked to colonial legacies.

Tribes in the Modern Era

Shifting Roles

Few tribes today remain entirely isolated from the influence of modern state systems. Traditional tribal functions, such as localized justice, taxation, and defense, have often been superseded by state institutions. This transition has frequently led to a decline in traditional structures and a loss of cultural identity for many groups.

Adaptation and Survival

In response to these pressures, many tribal groups have adapted to the contemporary political landscape. Some have transformed their cultures and practices to ensure survival, while others have actively secured legal rights and protections to maintain their distinct identities and autonomy within larger state structures.

Sovereign Nations

In the United States, Native American tribes are recognized as sovereign nations. This legal status grants them inherent rights and a degree of self-governance, maintaining their distinct political identities and relationships with the federal government.

Yemen: A Tribal Society

Yemen stands out as a highly tribal nation within the Arab world. Tribal leaders exert significant influence and are deeply integrated into the state's fabric. With estimates ranging from 200 to over 400 distinct tribes, Yemen exemplifies the enduring strength and complexity of tribal structures in contemporary society.

India's Scheduled Tribes

In India, specific communities designated as "Scheduled Tribes" (ST) receive constitutional protections and affirmative action. This designation arose from debates in the Constituent Assembly, recognizing the need for special provisions for indigenous and tribal populations to ensure their representation and well-being.

Related Concepts

Key Terms in Social Anthropology

The study of tribes intersects with numerous other concepts in social and political anthropology. Understanding these related terms provides a broader context for analyzing human social organization:

Band Society: Smaller, often nomadic groups, typically egalitarian.
Chiefdom: Societies with hereditary leadership and social stratification.
Ethnicity: A group identification based on shared cultural, linguistic, or national heritage.
State: A complex political entity with centralized authority and defined territory.
Kinship: The system of social relationships connecting individuals through descent and marriage.
Pantribal Sodalities: Social organizations that cut across kinship groups, often based on age, gender, or occupation.

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References

Robert J. McCarthy, The Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Federal Trust Obligation to American Indians, 19 BYU J. PUB. L. 1 (December, 2004)

A full list of references for this article are available at the Tribe Wikipedia page

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This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional anthropological, sociological, or historical consultation. Always refer to academic literature and consult with qualified professionals for specific research needs or interpretations.

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Tribal Tapestry

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

The Concept of Tribe 👥

🌐 A Contested Term

⚖️ Hierarchical Context

🏛️ Legal Recognition

🇺🇸 United States Context

Etymology of "Tribe" 📜

🗣️ Linguistic Roots

💡 Proto-Indo-European Origins

Sociopolitical Classification 📊

📚 Service's Typology

🤝 Defining the Tribe

🛡️ Fried's Perspective

Debate and Deprecation ❓

🧐 Scrutiny and Utility

↔️ Fluid Boundaries

🔗 Colonial Connotations

Tribes in the Modern Era 🌍

📉 Shifting Roles

🔄 Adaptation and Survival

🇺🇸 Sovereign Nations

🇾🇪 Yemen: A Tribal Society

🇮🇳 India's Scheduled Tribes

Related Concepts 🔗

📚 Key Terms in Social Anthropology

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

The Concept of Tribe

A Contested Term

Hierarchical Context

Legal Recognition

United States Context

Etymology of "Tribe"

Linguistic Roots

Proto-Indo-European Origins

Sociopolitical Classification

Service's Typology

Defining the Tribe

Fried's Perspective

Debate and Deprecation

Scrutiny and Utility

Fluid Boundaries

Colonial Connotations

Tribes in the Modern Era

Shifting Roles

Adaptation and Survival

Sovereign Nations

Yemen: A Tribal Society

India's Scheduled Tribes

Related Concepts

Key Terms in Social Anthropology

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice