In a kinship system that traces ancestry through both parents, what is this descent called?

In a kinship system that traces ancestry through both parents, what is this descent called?

• A. Patrilineal
• B. Matrilineal
• C. Bilateral descent
• D. Endogamy

Answer: (C)

Tracing ancestry through both parents is bilateral descent. This system recognizes kinship and inherited connections on both the mother’s side and the father’s side, giving individuals ties, obligations, and often inheritance from both families. It contrasts with patrilineal or matrilineal systems, which emphasize only one parent's lineage. Endogamy, on the other hand, is about marrying within a specific group, not about how descent is traced.

Tracing ancestry through both parents is bilateral descent. This system recognizes kinship and inherited connections on both the mother’s side and the father’s side, giving individuals ties, obligations, and often inheritance from both families. It contrasts with patrilineal or matrilineal systems, which emphasize only one parent's lineage. Endogamy, on the other hand, is about marrying within a specific group, not about how descent is traced.