Acephali

Akephalie (Greek a- " ohne/un- " kephale " Tete, " ) referred to in the policy Ethnology the freedom from domination in traditional human societies. Decisions are found in common discourse.

According to the definition of the German ethnologists and sociologists Christian Sigrist a politically organized by a central instance is called acephalous society. Sigrist also talks of regulated anarchy. The German sociologist Thomas Wagner designated akephale societies as egalitarian consensus democracy.

Akephale companies

Akephale societies are egalitarian societies, that is focused on social and political equality of its members. There are at most respect for persons, such as the elderly ( Arnold Gehlen: " institution in a particular case "). Power is therefore not permanently tied to specific individuals or institutions. It is awarded on a democratic basis as required ( for example, hunting projects, defense) to suitable persons who have distinguished themselves by special abilities. Such leadership roles can apply only for parts of the company and are limited in time. You are not with sanctions ellen rule rights ( for example, monopoly of force, jurisdiction or duties) equipped.

Acephalous are organized in particular hunter-gatherer communities. Their small group size, the close relationship between members and the low importance of personal possession and ownership diminish social differences and prevent the concentration of power on individuals.

Criticism

Critics note that the categorization of a society " acephalous " only by the absence of the rule of respondents, as, however, do not make statements about the existing forms of political organization. Thus, the term select only an imprecise otherness to testify without knowing anything about the actual political systems of the companies referred to as acephalous (see Eurocentrism ).