Final answer:
Ambilineal descent is a flexible descent system allowing individuals to trace their lineage through either the mother's or father's side, giving families the choice unlike unilineal descent, which is strictly through one gendered line.
Step-by-step explanation:
The form of descent in which individuals can select to trace descent either matrilineal or patrilineal is known as ambilineal descent. In this type of descent system, families may choose which lineage to follow based on various factors, such as opportunities presented by either the mother's or father's family. Ambilineal descent is a form of cognatic descent, characterized by the flexibility in the choice of lineage, unlike unilineal descent systems like patrilineal or matrilineal descent which follow a strict single gendered line.
In unilineal descent, an individual's kinship is strictly traced through a single gendered line, either male or female. This forms the basis of EGO's lineage, which is thought to descend from an original ancestor. In ambilineal societies, families are diverse and do not adhere to a singular descent recognition. This system is similar to the 'Burger King' approach, where people have the choice 'their way', either through the mother's or father's lineage.