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Joukowsky Institute for Archaeology & the Ancient World
Brown University
Box 1837 / 60 George Street
Providence, RI 02912
Telephone: (401) 863-3188
Fax: (401) 863-9423
[email protected]
This theory is about the behavior of tribal societies in times of difficulty when a state does not exist. In times of difficulty, tribesmen must rely on other people because they have no state who can ensure their rights and protection. When external or natural factors pose a threat, the theory suggests that tribes will divide into smaller groups that are based on genealogical ties. The theory is associated with the concept of honor in Arabian tribal societes. The maintaining of honor is so importing that groups become more unified whenever there are feuds. In the end, when the tough times are over, tribal order is maintained.