First published in 1988, this book examines the causes and consequences
of different mating patterns in man with particular reference to
biological, medical and demographic factors. Although the effects of
inbreeding on genetic structure and gene frequencies have been well
covered in the medical genetics literature, and specific social systems
have been described in social anthropology texts, this attempts to
present an holistic approach. Four main areas are covered: historical
and demographic aspects; mate choice and assortative mating; social
systems, religious rules and mating practices; medical and genetic
issues. The papers in each section have been carefully edited and
integrated to present a cohesive treatment of value to advanced students
and research workers in human biology and genetics.