HUNTER-GATHERER STRUCTURAL TRANSFORMATIONS

A methodology for addressing structural transformation is illustrated with material from hunter-gatherer societies. A proper account of the transformation between types of social structure is in three basic ste ps. First, a separate, full analysis for each type is required, in ord er to discern which among its array of distinctive institutions is gen eratively fundamental; it is upon this fundamental institution that th e transformation is focused. Secondly, an examination of the principle s of structuring exemplified in each type is needed; this permits the question of legitimacy relating to the transformation to be addressed. Finally, the cultural change which underpins the transformation shoul d be explained. Three types of hunter-gatherer social structure are us ed Eskimo/Bushman, Northwest Coast Indian and Australian. Particular a ttention is paid to the logic of the social structure among the Austra lian, and to revealing the contrasting principles of structuring that pertain to the three types. Eskimo/Bushman institutions are shown to b e informed more by 'information structuring', whilst Northwest Coast I ndian and Australian are informed more by 'authority structuring'; in terms of legitimacy this is a radical difference.