In today’s world, kinship remains a cornerstone of social organization, defining roles and relationships within families based on established rules and principles. Predominantly, societies operate under a patriarchal system, where men hold primary power and inheritance is passed down through the male line. This patriarchal structure is seen as the norm in many cultures, influencing political leadership, societal privileges, and family dynamics. From the bustling cities of India to the traditional heartlands of the Middle East, Patriarchal norms influence daily life. However, it is important to recognize that not all societies follow this pattern. In some parts of the world matrilineal systems exist, where lineage and inheritance are traced through the female line. How is matriarchy different from matrilineal? Matrilineal society tends to be confused with matriarchy. Matriarchy refers to female-dominated society, Whereas, Matriliny is a descent through women. The matrilineal system does not correspond to matriarchy but rather shows an image of patriarchy. Matriarchy is a social system where women hold the primary power and authority. In a matriarchal society, women typically dominate in roles of political leadership, moral authority, societal privileges, and control of property. Matrilineal refers to a system of lineage in which descent and inheritance are traced through the mother’s line. Madhumita Das explains that there exist three characteristics of matriarchy, firstly, Descent is traced through the mother, meaning family names and lineage are inherited from the mother’s side. Second, these societies follow a ‘matrilocal residential system’, where after marriage, the husband moves in with the wife’s family. Third, Inheritance of property and assets are by female members. According to anthropologists, any society that adheres to these three norms is considered matrilineal. David Schneider emphasizes the distinction between ‘Kinship’ and ‘descent’. Kinship refers to various statuses or interrelationships defined by rules and principles that help differentiate between kinsmen from non-kin. ‘Descent’ on the other hand refers to how kinship and lineage are traced through generations. When the female line is used to determine descent, it’s called matrilineal. In a matrilineal society, the descent or the family name is through the mother’s side and it is known…
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