ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the empirical support for a well-known theory about the consequences of various family cultures for social outcomes – namely, the theory of E. Todd. Since the family structure and cultures of a country change slowly, they may be regarded as a kind of historical heritage whose eventual impact on society and politics would show up after a while. The implication is that family institutions could be a source of support for democracy or a hindrance against democracy. H. Eckstein argued that family institutions and the constitutional institutions of a country must display some level of congruence in order for the country to remain viable. In addition to the impact of globalization on family systems, spreading the liberal type to countries around the globe, there are more fundamental empirical difficulties involved. Family systems supporting individualist values seem to have a strong and positive impact on the level of democracy.
