ABSTRACT
The functions of marriage in North-West Australia are similar to those in our own community, but there is one aspect which we have only mentioned in passing, and that is the tribal law that prescribes the relationship of those who may marry. Does this limitation of choice vitiate the advantages we have discussed? To answer this we must study the working of the kinship system in regard to marriage, the attitudes adopted by individuals towards it, the extent to which they regard it as curtailing their liberties or as a means of attaining their desires; the circumstances under which the law is set aside, the frequency with which this happens, the adjustments that are made and the reactions of community. These are problems which must be considered before we can examine in detail the rights, privileges, and duties that are inherent in the marital bond.
