parenté

Parenté, or kinship, denotes the system by which people define and organize relationships of relatedness within a society. It covers blood ties (consanguinity), ties formed by marriage (affinity), and in many contexts adoptive or social bonds. Kinship structures influence who is regarded as a family member, what duties and rights are ascribed, and how property, names, and social status are transmitted.

Kinship terminology and organization vary widely across cultures. Some systems distinguish many relatives and generations; others consolidate relatives under broad terms. Classic typologies describe descriptive (or lineal) and classificatory systems, with well-known patterns such as the Eskimo, Hawaiian, Iroquois, Crow, and patrilineal or matrilineal descent schemes. These systems interact with descent rules to define kin groups and influence marriage, inheritance, and political authority. Residence rules, such as patrilocal or matrilocal living, often reflect these structures.

Descent and alliance are central to social life in many societies, but modern usage broadens parenté to include non-biological ties, step-relatives, and chosen families. Legal recognition of adoption, guardianship, and blended families further expand kin networks in many societies, while globalization and migration diversify kinship practices.

In research, kinship is studied through genealogies, surveys, and cross-cultural comparisons, informing theories about family, social organization, and cultural variation. Related topics include genealogy, anthropology, and family studies.