Ambilineality

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Ambilineality is a system of determining descent groups in which one belongs to one's father's or mother's lineage. Unlike Unilineal descent, Ambilineality allows the individual the option of choosing their own lineage. The Hawaiian kinship system is an example of ambilineality.

A number of societies practice Ambilineal descent, most of them being in Southeast Asia or the Pacific. Societies of both the Samoa and the indigenous peoples of Northwestern North America are also practitioners of Ambilineality. Ambilineal descent is also often found among Jewish peoples living in the United States.

[edit] See also

• Unilineality
• Family
• Cultural anthropology