Anthropology (ANTH) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

An important aspect of kinship in anthropology is that it reflects social practices and cultural norms. Kinship is not just about biological relationships; rather, it encompasses the various ways in which societies understand and organize relationships between individuals. These relationships are often defined by cultural beliefs and practices, which can vary widely across different societies.

For example, in many cultures, kinship ties can include not only blood relations but also those established through marriage, adoption, or other social bonds. These connections can determine social responsibilities, inheritance, and group membership, illustrating how deeply embedded cultural norms shape the understanding of kinship.

In contrast, while biological connections play a role in kinship, they do not solely define it, as indicated by the other selections. Economic cooperation can be a part of kinship systems, but it does not capture the full scope of how kinship operates within various cultures. Additionally, kinship often exists within a framework of social hierarchies, which means it does not disregard these structures but rather influences and is influenced by them.