An Ethological Theory of the Incest Taboo and Exogamy: With Special Reference to the Views of Claude Lévi-Strauss

Abstract

In this paper a causal ethological theory of the incest taboo and exogamy is developed. Some arguments are given for this theory from animal and human behaviour. Because the theory seems to be incompatible with Claude Levi-Strauss' views on this subject, his theory is briefly reviewed and criticised on some points. An attempt is made at a synthesis of Levi-Strauss' principles of redistribution and gift-giving and the author's theory of incest avoidance. It is shown that counterparts for the mechanisms of redistribution and gift-giving can be found in animal behaviour.