In this paper I reconsider the evidence for saying that polygyny
has historically been a response to imbalanced sex ratios often brought
about by warfare. I suggest refinements and revisions to categories
and variables for cross-cultural comparisons involving both demo
graphic and social organizational concerns. And I identify problems
with coding of census data, and explore the problems associated
with the use of dichotomous marriage form variables. An accurate
characterization of a society's marriage arrangements must account
for both the incidence and intensity of polygyny, as well as its pres
ence or absence. Characterizing the involvement of females in poly
gynous marriages provides important insight into both historical and
contemporary social demographic processes.
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