Robber noblemen: A study of the political system of the Sikh Jats (International library of anthropology) - Hardcover

Pettigrew, Joyce J. M

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0710079990 ISBN 13: 9780710079992

Publisher: Routledge & Kegan Paul, 1975

Synopsis

First published in 1975, Robber Noblemen represents a break with traditional anthropological studies within the Indian subcontinent in the breadth of its coverage. A whole state, the Punjab, is discussed, with special reference to the social and political organization of its landowning Sikhs: the Jats. Joyce Pettigrew demonstrates that although the Punjab is included within the formal political framework of the Indian Union, it is nevertheless more closely allied to countries on its western border, by virtual of its social structure and value system. The caste system does not exist among the Sikhs. Values sustaining patterns of social and political action are not those pertaining to ritual purity and pollution but are those concerned with the extended family unit: honour, reputation, insult. The author shows how long-standing collaborative relationships between families compete with other similarly formed alliances or 'factions' for power and influence. This book will be of interest to students of anthropology, history, political science and South Asian studies.

Edition details

• Publisher: Routledge & Kegan Paul
• Publication date: 1975
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0710079990
• ISBN 13: 9780710079992
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 272