Power
Power is the ability to influence or control the behavior of others, often against resistance. Harold Lasswell, a prominent political scientist, concisely encapsulates this concept as "who gets what, when, and how"
Political Anthropology
Political Anthropology is the study of the relationship between power, politics, and culture in human societies. This category covers topics related to political systems and institutions, including forms of governance, decision-making, and conflict resolution. From exploring the cultural dimensions of political power to examining the impact of colonialism and globalization on political systems, this category provides insights into the diverse and complex nature of human politics.
Violent means of Dispute Settlement
While violent means of dispute resolution are generally destructive, they are historically ingrained and pervasive across societies. Their understanding can shed light on a society's values, norms, and structures, making them a significant area of study in anthropology.
Crime and Society
The symbiotic relationship between crime and society has piqued the interest of scholars, particularly those of social-cultural anthropology. The discipline, grounded in understanding human behavior, culture, and societal norms, provides a unique lens to unpack the complexities and nuances of crime.
Criminal Law
Criminal law is an integral part of the justice system, responsible for regulating social conduct, deterring criminal activities, and maintaining public order. It sets out the parameters of lawful and unlawful behavior, stipulating punishments for transgressions
State
In its simplest form, the state is an institution with a monopoly on the legitimate use of physical force within a given territory. Yet, its definition in political anthropology expands to include elements like culture, societal structure, and power relationships.
Kingdom
One of the most well-known types of states is a Kingdom, a form of government with a monarch at the helm, where authority and power are typically inherited.
Law and Justice in Simple Societies
Law and justice in simple societies can be understood in somewhat different ways compared to their understanding in complex, modern societies.
Tribe
A tribe can be defined as a group of people, often related through blood ties, who share common culture, language
Lineage
In the broadest sense, lineage is a group of individuals who are directly descended from a common ancestor through either the male or female line.
Clan
A clan is a social unit possessing distinctive characteristics, transcending the nuclear family's bounds, and closely
Chiefdom
A Chiefdom is a political organization in which a chief or a group of chiefs hold power over a community or tribe.
Political Anthropology
Political Anthropology examines the socio-cultural processes within governments, states, parties and other political systems.