Final answer:
The comparison between the Basseri and Qashqai tribes shows that increased regulatory issues in tribal societies lead to more complex political hierarchies. Nomadic pastoralists rely heavily on herd animals for their livelihood, social status, and cultural practices, and face challenges interacting with sedentary societies and modern states.
Step-by-step explanation:
The comparison between the Basseri and the Qashqai, two Iranian nomadic tribes, illustrates that as regulatory problems increase, political hierarchies become more complex. In tribal societies, such as these pastoralist groups, extended family structures provide the primary means of social integration, and the welfare and livelihood of the communities revolve significantly around herd animals. With an increase in regulatory issues, such as those concerning land use and resources, the political structures within these societies can become more defined and hierarchical to better address these challenges.
Nomadic pastoral tribes like the Basseri and Qashqai have historically faced challenges due to their lifestyle, which necessitates regular movement to new pastures and can lead to conflicts with sedentary agricultural communities or modern nation-states. While sometimes viewed as more isolated due to their mobile lifestyle, these societies still interact with others and may develop complex social and political structures to manage internal and external affairs, including disputes over land and resources.
Furthermore, it is clear that the value of herd animals extends beyond mere sustenance, influencing social status, wealth, and integration in pastoral societies, as well as playing a central role in cultural traditions and social ceremonies.