Thus, on the basis of above definitions, we can infer some common characteristics of clan as under:
(1) Clan is a unit between family and descent.
(2) It is unilateral, i.e., either from male or female side.
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(3) It is exogamous.
(4) It provides rules for marriage, ceremonies, inheritance and social control.
(5) It is found in some specific places.
(6) It also has some authority over an area.
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(7) It is totemic.
(8) It traces its descent from some common ancestor. Clan, Family, Lineage and Totem
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A clan is not a tribe. It is only a pattern of unilateral social relationship within the tribe. It is also not a family, neither is it a lineage. As a matter of fact, clan is related to several concepts, the important ones being family, lineage and totem.
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There are differences in all the three concepts. For a proper understanding of clan we should bring out the differences in these concepts.