Island Networks: Communication, Kinship, and Classification Structures in Oceania [Hardcover]

Using network models from graph theory, this book analyses the formation of Pacific island empires.Contrary to common perception and belief, most island societies of the Pacific were not isolated, but were connected to other island societies by relations of kinship and marriage, trade and tribute, lan guage and history. Using network models from graph theory the authors analyze the formation of island empires, dialect groups, economic and political centers; the evolution and devolution of social stratification; and the development of kinship terminologies, marriage systems and descent groups.Contrary to common perception and belief, most island societies of the Pacific were not isolated, but were connected to other island societies by relations of kinship and marriage, trade and tribute, lan guage and history. Using network models from graph theory the authors analyze the formation of island empires, dialect groups, economic and political centers; the evolution and devolution of social stratification; and the development of kinship terminologies, marriage systems and descent groups.Contrary to common perception and belief, most island societies of the Pacific were not isolated, but were connected to other island societies by relations of kinship and marriage, trade and tribute, language and history. Using network models from graph theory the authors analyze the formation of island empires, dialect groups, economic and political centers; the evolution and devolution of social stratification; and the development of kinship terminologies, marriage systems and descent groups.List of figures, tables, and maps; Preface; Acknowledgements; 1. Island networks and graphs; 2. Trees; 3. The minimum spanning tree problem; 4. Search trees I; 5. Search trees II; 6. Centrality; 7. Dominating sets; 8. Digraphs; 9. Conclusion; References; Index. This unique and important work makes fascinating reading and should have a wide audience among both graph theorists and social scientists