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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What can be changed through the margins Douglas describes?

2. What may the Nuer kill in defense for, according to Douglas?

3. What do the Lele men compete for?

4. If a husband's life is threatened, who is to blame in Nuer beliefs?

5. What types of nationalities are deemed to represent power and invite discrimination, according to Douglas?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe the social structure of the Walbiri.

2. How is infidelity handled in a Nuer society?

3. Describe the structure of the Lugbara.

4. How does Douglas state that danger can be controlled?

5. Why does Douglas say that social consequences cannot be reversed?

6. Describe the four types of pollutions that Douglas introduces.

7. Describe the Coorgs' caste system.

8. Compare and contrast the Nuers and Bedouins on political structure.

9. Describe the enforcements of harmony that Douglas introduces.

10. Describe the beliefs of the Maoris.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Assess rituals in primitive culture. How would Douglas answer these questions and why: Are rituals rooted in magic? Why do you think this is so? Are anti-ritual views accurate?

Essay Topic 2

What is the difference between social and cosmic pollution in Purity and Danger? How do both relate to primitive and modern cultures in the reading? How do these pollutions relate to your life?

Essay Topic 3

Describe Douglas' social structures. What is the significance of a formal power structure? What happens with a system lacks a power structure? Are there any benefits to these systems? Why or why not?

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