Ecological Sensitivity and Resistance of Cultures in Asia

Abstract

Ecological influences on culture have been demonstrated by several in vestigators. Many such studies have been done in Asia where two ecological niches extend over vast areas. One of these is the highland or mountainous territory 500 meters above sea level; the other consists of plains and pla teaus under 500 meters. The HRAF files were used to compare cultures in the highlands with those in the lowlands. The files indicate that certain items may be ecology sensitive (that is, more apt to change with ecologic shift). These include agricultural methods, sociopolitical organization and preferred marriage forms. Other items may be ecology resistant (that is, less apt to change with ecologic shift). These include descent and house types.