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Case Studies in Dual Classification as Process: Childbirth, Headhunting and Circumcision in West Timor
Author(s) -
McWilliam Andrew
Publication year - 1994
Publication title -
oceania
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.356
H-Index - 25
eISSN - 1834-4461
pISSN - 0029-8077
DOI - 10.1002/j.1834-4461.1994.tb02488.x
Subject(s) - dual (grammatical number) , multitude , sociology , expression (computer science) , epistemology , dual purpose , dual role , social category , categorization , gender studies , social psychology , psychology , philosophy , computer science , linguistics , mechanical engineering , chemistry , engineering , combinatorial chemistry , programming language
The diverse societies of eastern Indonesia have, for some time, been recognised as important contexts for the study of dual classification. In this region the practice of dual classification is evident in a multitude of social forms. It is found in the range of conventional expressions for category distinctions as well as in the formal organisation of ceremonial contexts and structural patterns of society. This paper examines the expression of certain dual classificatory forms as they appear in three types of ritual processes in West Timorese society. My purpose is to show how this type of classification provides a vital conceptual means to both protect the well‐being of participants in the conduct of the ritual processes, and at the same time, to effect symbolic and celebratory affirmations of life. I argue that in the manipulation and interaction of the dual categories it is possible to recognise a striking commonality of purpose.