vital sequence

is a basic universal biological need and the general cultural responses. These included metabolism (foodways), reproduction (kinship), bodily comfort (shelter), safety (protection), movement (activities), growth (training) and health (hygiene).

After defining 'culture', Malinowski (1944: 75-84) proposes a theory of 'vital sequences', which he says are biological foundations incorporated into all cultures. There are eleven of these sequences, each composed of an 'impulse', an associated physiological 'act', and a 'satisfaction' which results from that act. For example, the impulse of somnolence is associated with the act of sleep, resulting in satisfaction by 'awakening with restored energy' (1944: 77). He follows this eleven-fold paradigm with a slightly simpler one. This is the one built on the relationship between seven 'basic needs' and their respective 'cultural responses' (1944: 91119). He then goes on to a four-fold one, relating what he sees as four, rather complex, 'instrumental imperatives' with their respective 'cultural responses'. The latter comprise economics, social control, education, and political organization (1944: 120-31). Finally, he tackles 'integrative imperatives' and the 'instrumentally implemented vital sequence' (1944: 132-44). (barnard 'history of anthropology).these are biological foundations incorporated into all cultures. Seven basic needs and their cultural responses. VITAL SEQUENCES 7 BASIC NEEDS AND THEIR CULTURAL RESPONSES 1. metabolism commissariat 2. reproduction kinship 3. bodily comforts shelter 4. safety protection 5. movement activities 6. growth training 7. health hygiene

vital sequence, n.Definitions

vital sequence