article

Population control in the Shanel (Pomo) Tribe

American sociological review4 (2) • Published In 1939 • Pages: 209-216

By: Aginsky, Bernard W. (Bernard Willard).

Abstract
The material in this source, written by B. W. Aginsky, a professional anthropologist then at New York University, is devoted almost in its entirety to Hopland Valley Pomo beliefs about conception and techniques of birth control of both a magical and mechanical nature. Information is also given regarding abortion and infanticide. The author attempts to show how the scarcity of food among the Pomo in the early days of their history led to a development of various techniques of birth control in order to keep the population reduced to such a degree that there would be adequate food for all. This in turn, according to Aginsky, influenced to some degree Pomo religious beliefs and practices.
Subjects
Functional and adaptational interpretations
Diet
General character of religion
Magic
Conception
Abortion and infanticide
culture
Pomo
HRAF PubDate
2000
Region
North America
Sub Region
Northwest Coast and California
Document Type
article
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
John Beierle ; 1960
Field Date
1934-1936
Coverage Date
not specified
Coverage Place
Hopland Valley Pomo (Shanel), California, United States
Notes
Burt W. Aginsky
Includes bibliographical references
LCCN
37010449
LCSH
Pomo Indians