Multiple Relations: Towards an Anthropology of Parenting

Abstract

Abstract

en Despite the importance of parent-child relationsships in kinship, parenthood is an under-theorized topic in kinship anthropology. The paper outlines an anthropology of parenting that recognizes this centrality. Its theory is first developed on the basis of a case study, followed by debates that are important for an anthropology of parenthood. The problematic juxtaposition of biological versus social is located in the history of social anthropology and debates that are important for an anthropology of parenthood are then outlined. this is finally defined as an relational concept that emerges through multiple relationships.