GCC Sociology Polyandry Patriarchal and Matriarchal Families Questions

This week we will watch 3 short films that are also used in OBSERVATION #5. Each film is an example of a family form we may not be familiar with but learn about in this week’s lessons. These family forms are both examples of Polygamy, have multiple adult partners; Polygany, where the family includes multiple wives, and Polyandry, where the family includes multiple husbands.  The last film is on Matriarchy, a social system where women are the ones in power. We must acknowledge that not all societies are patriarchal, when men make the rules. Looking at one matriarchal society will help us understand how the family helps structure society.

Assignment

After watching the films, answer these questions and submit them in this assignment:

1. How do these 3 different family forms differ on the number of children they have?
2. How do these 3 different family forms differ on the ownership of property?
3. How do these 3 different family forms differ on who cares for the children?

The first film introduces fraternal polyandy – where a wife takes as her husbands brothers. Notice why they do this. 

FILM 1 Polyandry (Fraternal)

Fraternal PolyandryLinks to an external site.

The second film combines religion with family. It focuses on a cut called the Fundamental Latter Day Saints, a spin off from the Mormon religion. This is an example of patriarchy and a cult. Some of the images and conversations are quite difficult as the deal with incest, rape, and violence.

FILM 2 Patriarchy Cult

“Damned to Heaven”Links to an external site.

The third film is a documentary on the Mosuo society, which is a matriarchy. This society is ancient and is balancing their culture with modernity.

FILM 3 Matriarchy

“The Women’s Kingdom”Links to an external site.