Final answer:
Polygamy tends to be prevalent in egalitarian societies characterized by significant male mortality or absenteeism. This results from gender imbalances and a strong sexual division of labor, with men engaging in risky hunting and fishing activities. Practices such as polygamy and adoption of widows and children help maintain social structures in these societies.
Step-by-step explanation:
Polygamy is most common in egalitarian societies marked by high male mortality or absenteeism. In societies such as those of gatherer-hunters, where cooperation and sharing are emphasized, and there is a strong sexual division of labor, men are typically responsible for hunting and fishing. These activities can be hazardous, often resulting in injury or death, which can lead to a gender imbalance. As a result, just like in the case of the Inuit bands, women may outnumber men, leading to practices such as polygamy to maintain the social structure within the society.
In acephalous societies, which lack formal leadership and promote consensus decision-making, such gender imbalances can also influence social practices related to marriage and family organization. Moreover, in matrilineal societies, even though leadership may be exercised by senior men, family organization and resource decisions can be strongly influenced by the maternal line, affecting how societies adapt to gender ratios.
The adoption of children and widows is also related to high male mortality in some societies. This may include societies where males are frequently absent, such as in military-penal complexes, and practices like polygamy are common for men who can provide for multiple wives.