COMPLEX RANK CULTURAL SYSTEMS IN THE HAWAIIAN ISLANDS: SUGGESTED EXPLANATIONS FOR THEIR ORIGIN1

Abstract

An attempt at explaining the origin of complex rank systems in the Hawaiian Islands is begun here. Successive “systems” (simple-rank and complex rank systems) are discussed, and the change is seen to involve generally a switch from one chiefly minimal rank level and one redistribution level in simple systems, to at least two chiefly status levels and redistribution levels in complex systems. Inputs to the simple rank systems are analyzed as possible initiators of the change, and population growth to the pressure level in one or more simple systems in a full-land situation is postulated as the initiating input. Cultural readjustments to this systemic stress which would lead to complex rank systems are discussed, and two readjustments were hypothesized — “war for land” and “social organization change”. Implications for archaeological testing of these hypotheses are suggested. Areas of future data collection end the paper.