Final answer:
In North America, the most common descent principle in use is bilateral descent, which involves considering both the father's and mother's sides when tracing kinship or ancestry.
Step-by-step explanation:
In North America, the most common descent principle in use is bilateral descent. This means that people consider both their father's and mother's sides when tracing their kinship or ancestry. In contrast, unilateral descent is practiced in 40% of societies worldwide, with a focus on tracing kinship through one parent only. It is important to note that kinship can be based on blood, marriage, or adoption.