Social Institutions in Sociology

Questions and Answers

What is a key distinction between Patrilineal and Matrilineal descent systems?

In Patrilineal systems, lineage is traced through the male line, while in Matrilineal systems, it is traced through the female line.

How do inheritance practices differ between Patrilineal and Matrilineal systems?

In Patrilineal systems, inheritance typically passes from father to son, whereas in Matrilineal systems, property and titles are often inherited through the mother's line.

How do sociologists view society in relation to social institutions?

Sociologists view society as a social organism comprised of different parts, specifically its institutions.

What role do marriage practices play in Patrilineal descent systems?

In Patrilineal systems, marriages often involve bride price and the idea of women moving to their husband's family, reinforcing male lineage. Signup and view all the answers

Identify one example of a society outside Ghana that practices Matrilineal descent.

The Minangkabau people in Indonesia are known for their Matrilineal descent system. Signup and view all the answers

What acronym represents the major institutions in society according to sociological analysis?

The acronym PREMEH represents the major institutions in society. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common residential pattern in Patrilineal societies?

Patrilineal societies typically observe patrilocal residence, where a married couple lives with or near the husband's family. Signup and view all the answers

Why can social institutions not be directly observed?

Social institutions cannot be directly observed as they are aspects of human thoughts and behaviors. Signup and view all the answers

In what way do social institutions influence individual behavior?

Social institutions shape individual behavior by providing guidance and structure for interactions. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does membership recruitment differ in Matrilineal systems?

In Matrilineal systems, membership is often based on maternal links, meaning individuals derive their identity and family membership from their mothers. Signup and view all the answers

What role do social institutions play in maintaining societal order?

Social institutions maintain order by providing clear guidance and procedures for individuals. Signup and view all the answers

Discuss how succession is generally managed in Matrilineal societies.

Succession in Matrilineal societies often favors female descendants, with titles and inheritance passing through the female line. Signup and view all the answers

How do social institutions contribute to social control?

They legitimize and regulate statuses and roles in society, thus serving as sources of social control. Signup and view all the answers

What are some essential features of the Patrilineal descent system?

Essential features of Patrilineal systems include male-dominated inheritance rights, patrilocal residence, and the importance of male lineage in social status. Signup and view all the answers

In what ways do social institutions provide social identity?

Social institutions provide collective ways of acting and thinking, contributing to social identity. Signup and view all the answers

What societal status is associated with women who become female husbands among the Igbo?

Female husbands are viewed as men and enjoy elevated status and privileges. Signup and view all the answers

What do social institutions specify in relation to individuals and groups?

Social institutions specify the relationships, rights, and responsibilities between individuals and groups. Signup and view all the answers

How does the female husband influence lineage among her children?

Children belong to the lineage of the female husband's father, not their biological father. Signup and view all the answers

What role do female husbands play in ceremonies compared to their male counterparts?

Female husbands enjoy equal privileges and their opinions are prioritized. Signup and view all the answers

Why might older women become female husbands among the Nandi of Western Kenya?

To ensure they have heirs to inherit their name, wealth, and property. Signup and view all the answers

What is one solution to infertility addressed in the societies mentioned?

Women who cannot have children may take wives to claim their children as their own. Signup and view all the answers

Who are the prime candidates to become female husbands, particularly in the context of social stature?

Wealthy, high-status women past menopause or those who are childless. Signup and view all the answers

In some cultures, what role does a female husband fulfill in relation to her wife’s children?

She plays the role of father, provider, and protector. Signup and view all the answers

What unique perspective is given to females who marry other women in terms of societal roles?

They are regarded as 'first among equals' among their female peers. Signup and view all the answers

What are the main sources of revenue for an Akan chief?

Court fees, fines, taxes, trading activities, and war booties. Signup and view all the answers

How does the Akan political system ensure that decisions are made collectively?

Every decision must be discussed and agreed upon by the counsellors and the Queen mother. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the Yaana in the Dagbon political organization?

The Yaana is the king who leads the Dagbon Kingdom and is the central authority. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the hierarchical structure of the Dagbon political organization.

The kingdom is divided into hierarchically ranked chiefdoms and divisions. Signup and view all the answers

In what way is the Akan political system centralized?

There is a chief recognized and respected throughout the entire territory within each defined area. Signup and view all the answers

What role do 'female sons' play in their families according to the content?

'Female sons' become heads of their families and are expected to marry women for lineage. Signup and view all the answers

How does customary marriage in Ghana differ from Islamic marriage in terms of polygyny?

Customary marriage allows unlimited polygyny, while Islamic marriage is limited to four wives. Signup and view all the answers

What symbolic purposes does marriage payment serve in Ghanaian culture?

It acknowledges the bride’s family's investment, demonstrates the groom's seriousness, and provides legal backing for children. Signup and view all the answers

What legal implications does marriage payment have regarding children born from the marriage?

It legalizes the status of the children, attributing them as belonging to the husband regardless of biological paternity. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does 'Rights-in-Genetricem' affect the status of children in a marriage?

'Rights-in-Genetricem' ensures all children born to the woman are considered the husband's, irrespective of biological links. Signup and view all the answers

What obligations does 'Right-in-Uxorem' impose on the wife once marriage payment is completed?

It obligates the wife to provide domestic and sexual services to her husband. Signup and view all the answers

How do local differences impact marriage payment practices in Ghana?

Marriage payment practices vary by society and are not standardized, reflecting local cultural variations. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of marriage payment for the groom in the context provided?

It signifies the groom's commitment and responsibility as a husband and father. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Sociologists view society as a complex system made up of various institutions.
PREMEH institutions are key components forming the social structure of society.
Social institutions are intangible and shape human thoughts and behaviors.

Institutions evolve and are influenced by daily social interactions.
Educational institutions arise through interactions between students and lecturers.
Social institutions are essential for the survival of society, acting as functional prerequisites.

Provide order and guidance for individuals' pursuits.
Serve as sources of social control, legitimizing societal roles and statuses.
Foster social identity by promoting collective behaviors and mindsets.
Define relationships and outline rights and responsibilities among individuals and groups.

Comparative Descent Systems: Patrilineal and Matrilineal

Recognized as uni-linear descent systems, tracing kinship through one gender.
Patrilineal descent focuses on male lineage; matrilineal on female lineage.
Includes membership, inheritance, succession, and residential patterns.

Female Husbands in Matrilineal Societies

High-status women, particularly among the Igbo, can take female spouses, elevating their societal standing.
Female husbands gain power, assumed a paternal role, and have authority among their peers.
Children from these unions belong to the matrilineal descent, inheriting through their mother's lineage.

Addresses infertility by permitting childless women or widows to have heirs through female marriages.
"Female sons" can inherit and lead families, expanding familial lines.

Marital Types and Traditions in Ghana

Three primary types of marriage recognized: Customary, Islamic, and Marriage by Ordinance (Christian).
Each marriage type has unique practices regarding polygyny and legal recognition.

Marriage Payment Practices

Involves the exchange of items or symbolic gestures between kin groups, varying by society.
Represents acknowledgment of the bride's family investment and the groom's commitment.

Legal Implications of Marriage Payment

Legalizes the status of children born from the marriage, regardless of biological parentage.
Secures the husband’s rights over reproduction and domestic duties of his wife.

Political Organizations in Akan Society

Chiefs derive revenue from various sources; their role involves maintaining connections with ancestors.
Although appearing autocratic, chief authority requires checks by counsellors and queen mothers.

Dagbon Political Organization

Features a centralized system with clear authority and administrative structures.
The Yaana is the king, with Yendi as the capital; hierarchy is evident in chiefdoms and divisions.

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Description

This quiz explores the concept of social institutions within sociology, illustrating how these institutions act as parts of society's social structure. You will learn about the various types of institutions and their functions in shaping human behavior and societal organization.