Which term describes tracing descent through the mother's line?

Study for the JCJC Sociology Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Prepare for success on your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which term describes tracing descent through the mother's line?

Explanation:
Descent traced through the mother's line is matrilineal. In matrilineal systems, lineage, clan membership, and often inheritance follow the female line—from mother to daughter to granddaughter—so a person’s ancestry is defined through their mother’s side. This contrasts with patrilineal systems, which trace descent through the father’s line, and with cognatic or bilateral systems, which recognize descent from both parents. Because the question specifies tracing descent via the mother, matrilineal is the correct term.

Descent traced through the mother's line is matrilineal. In matrilineal systems, lineage, clan membership, and often inheritance follow the female line—from mother to daughter to granddaughter—so a person’s ancestry is defined through their mother’s side. This contrasts with patrilineal systems, which trace descent through the father’s line, and with cognatic or bilateral systems, which recognize descent from both parents. Because the question specifies tracing descent via the mother, matrilineal is the correct term.

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