This dissertation research in cultural anthropology will examine the relation between native conceptions of social structure and the organization of territorial interests among the Bani Sakhr, a tribe located in Jordan. Like other Near Eastern tribespeople, the Bani Sakhr describe their society as one composed of genealogically related sections and subsections. Each section possesses honor, and the section's name and honor are associated with physical space, property, and borders. In the tribal view honor, territory, and genealogy occupy the same conceptual space. This project will test the hypothesis that tribal genealogies as well as conceptions of honor become more elaborate and exclusive as investment in fixed productive resources increases. This research is important because the Near East is a critical culture area in the modern world, and their conceptions of honor are not well understood by the West. Research which will increase our understanding of their feelings about honor and lights to their honor will help our society deal with Near Eastern societies on a beneficial footing.
