Les Bases Psycho-Culturelles Du Tabou De L'inceste

Abstract

Incest in mythology and in practice, like other acts generally forbidden, has its sacred and ritual character. In many myths relating to the creation of man or the founding of a tribe, incest is the foundation. The history of the human race shows that incest has been permitted, usually in the case of royalty or aristocracy. Even where incest is allowed, it is, however, hedged with prohibitions for the majority of mankind.The author examines theories on the prohibitions against incest. One is that of biological consideration, incest being detrimental to the race. Tribal society, however, had little knowledge or fear of physical degeneracy as a result of incest, and there are many instances where one consanguinous relationship was permitted, while another equally close was interdicted.Another theory suggested is that erotic attachment to a family member is unlikely due to propinquity. If this were true, there would be no need to impose taboos and laws against the practice of incest. Even prior to psychoanal...