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This version was published on November 1, 2007
Journal of Black Studies, Vol. 38, No. 2, 232-250 (2007)
DOI: 10.1177/0021934705285695

Polygyny

Did the Africans Get It Right?

Cynthia T. Cook

State University of New York-Rockland Community College, ccook{at}sunyrockland.edu

This article discusses polygamy as an adaptive cultural practice for Africa. It examines the effects of polygyny on population growth and fertility for select countries. It argues that polygyny has a positive effect on population growth and fertility but at the same time may be harmful to the health and well-being of women and children. It ends with a discussion of interviews conducted with Ivorian women during the summer of 2002. The women reveal their concerns that a monogamous relationship may become polygamous in the future; that they have little control over their husbands' taking a second wife.

Key Words: polygamy • polygyny • monogamy • marriage • family • Africa • women


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