Definition
A society characterized as a single family or close extended family
Origins
Pre-history; modern form: Africa, 100,000 – 80,000 BP
Historic Characteristics
| Authority | Consensus among heads-of-family |
| Population | Half-dozen to few dozen |
| Territory | Nomadic |
| Composition | Single family |
| Social stratification | None |
| Capability | No public works |
Modern Versions
Hunter-gatherer societies