133k views
2 votes
Incest refers to sexual relations between close relatives. The taboo against incest is a cultural universal. Which of the following statements is also true about incest?

A) The taboo against incest is solely a result of biological instincts.
B) The definition of incest varies significantly between different cultures.
C) Incest is universally considered a criminal offense.
D) The prohibition of incest has no impact on the stability of societies.

1 Answer

4 votes

Final answer:

The definition of incest varies significantly between different cultures, with each society having its own norms concerning unacceptable sexual relationships. Kinship and family ties are recognized socioculturally rather than purely biologically, demonstrating that the incest taboo is deeply embedded in cultural practices.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that rings true about the taboo against incest, beyond being a cultural universal, is that the definition of incest varies significantly between different cultures. This variation reflects the cultural norms and social systems that are in place in different societies. Societies may have differing views on which relatives, such as cousins or those from the maternal or paternal side, are deemed unacceptable for sexual relationships.

While the incest taboo is a universal norm, society's interpretation of kinship is a sociocultural construct, often quite distinct from purely biological relationships. The norms around family and sexual relationships are tied to the wider sociocultural context, including traditions, social structures, and socioemotional bonds. This illustrates that the prohibition against incest is interwoven with cultural fabric, not strictly a biological instinct or universally policed through law.

User Keith Yong
by
8.1k points