What type of social structure does a clan suggest?

Prepare for the University of Toronto ANT100Y1 Introduction to Anthropology Midterm Test. Enhance your understanding with multiple-choice questions and detailed explanations. Get ready for success in your anthropology exam!

A clan typically suggests an egalitarian social structure where there is more equal access to resources and decision-making among its members. Clans are often organized around kinship ties and foster a sense of shared identity and mutual support among members. In such systems, while there may be individuals with varying degrees of influence or responsibility, the underlying principle is one of collective rights and responsibilities rather than strict hierarchical distinctions. This contrasts with more rigid social structures where roles are fixed or there is significant concentration of power in a few individuals, which does not align with the flexible dynamics observed in clan structures.

In an egalitarian system, decisions are often made collaboratively, and resources such as land, labor, and support are shared among clan members. This promotes social cohesion and reinforces mutual aid, which is crucial for the survival and success of the clan as a community.

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