Polygyny from and Anthropological Point of View

I have really been exploring this topic from a singular point of view and looking at the different aspects of polygenic culture independently. Because of this I don’t feel like I have fully understood the culture in terms of humanity and the overall study of humans, as we do in anthropology.

Polygenetic culture exhibits different family dynamics, gender roles and in most instances importance of religion compared to typical American monogamist culture. I am interested in looking at these distinctions from an anthropological point of view and because of this desire to broadly explore polygyny I will be generalizing about the culture though I understand that there is much variation within polygyny as in any culture.

Distinct family dynamics are identified with polygyny. In general the man takes on a more powerful role as the central provider for the family. This is also the general role of the male in a monogamist relationship but I think that in polygyny this is more expected and exaggerated. The women are the caretakers and homemakers. Though many work outside the home in addition to this traditional role, their first priorities are as wives and mothers. These familial dynamics also describe the gender roles prescribed by polygyny. In general women do not have equivalent power as men, polygyny is a patriarchal culture.

The religious aspect of Mormon polygyny, which I was trying to focus on in order to concentrate my study, is an important part of this culture. Religion is a universal theme, found in all cultures. Research has shown that religions which require believers to sacrifice more in the name of faith have more loyal followers and therefore the church is more secure. I believe that polygyny as a requirement of certain sects of Mormon religion is an example of this. By practicing polygyny followers demonstrate their loyalty to the faith and this secures the presence and power of the church which is better able to strongly continue.

Polygyny as a culture is dynamic and exhibits variety, but as a study of anthropology there are distinct characteristics of this culture, especially when it is compared to mainstream monogamist American culture which I am more familiar with. These features of polygyny are what make this culture distinct.

Religious Motivations for Practicing Polygyny

I have been conducting research on this topic and I found that the most common reason given for practicing polygyny is the fact that it was commanded by God. “…Polygamy was a revelation received by Joseph Smith, and members of the Church could not receive their highest exaltation in the post-earth life unless they obeyed the commandment of plural marriage” (Embry, 1987). Though Mormons who practice polygyny have not heard directly from God that this is what they must do, they believe that this declaration is coming from God through Smith.

Those that practice polygyny believe that it is not only sanctioned by God but that it is something expected of them. Priests of the Catholic Church take a vow of celibacy because this is what they must do for God to show their faith, they do not question this requirement. They know that if they want to enjoy heavenly life after death they must do as God commands.

Living in these religious societies God is the important ruler, much more significant than the law or government. People follow what they believe he wants of them for fear of the alternative. “…in order to reach the highest degree of the celestial kingdom – life in the presence of God where they would be able to create worlds, continue to produce spirit progeny to people them, and become like God – would be withheld from those who did not participate in plural marriage” (Embry, 1987). The greatest authority that these people know is God and so they must follow what he commands.



Embry, Jessie L. Mormon Polygamous Families. Vol. One. Salt Lake City, Utah: University of Utah P, 1987.