The Kinship Terminology of the Adi of Arunachal Pradesh (Padam and Minyong)

Abstract

This paper describes the kinship system of the Adi of Arunachal Pradesh (Padam and Minyong subgroups), focusing on its kin terminology. This system corresponds to the Omaha model defined by Lévi-Strauss, marked by generational skewing and only proscriptive matrimonial rules. It is also characterised by a remarkable profusion of terms of address indicating birth order. A comparison with the Mising system provides an opportunity to challenge some current neo-evolutionist paradigms regarding the transformations of kinship terminologies.