ABSTRACT

In an era of rapid change for Africa, this nomadic tribe clings to its traditional way of life. This book examines their society, and provides the first full published description of human life in the area. The author, a social anthropologist, spent more than two years among the Samburu; as an adopted member of one of their clans, he perceived how their values and attitudes are closely interwoven with a social system that resists change. Case studies support the general analysis throughout.
Originally published in 1965.

chapter 1|24 pages

, The pastoral economy

chapter 2|28 pages

Clanship and exogamy

chapter 3|18 pages

, The family and the herd

chapter 4|31 pages

The structure of samburu society

chapter 5|31 pages

The moran

chapter 6|42 pages

The moran and the total society

chapter 7|40 pages

Elderhood and the curse

chapter 8|22 pages

The status of women

chapter 9|43 pages

, Social attitude and ceremony

chapter 10|29 pages

The samburu and some neighbouring

chapter 11|12 pages

Conclusion: the gerontocratic