Speculation on the evolution of the Nyoongar hunter-gatherer family system

Abstract

Recently, a small team of Nyoongar and non-Nyoongar researchers applied a dual lens methodology to explore moort, the traditional hunter-gatherer family of the local Aboriginal Nyoongar people. An integrated system of seven most valued behaviours emerged. These are: Danjoo maam yok winni rak kardip (mutual gender respect), moiety (inbreeding prevention), kooboorn (totems), moran (kinship), boodiya (Eldership), kallip (knowledge of people and land), and dalbarbak koolangarra (honouring of children and childhood). In this paper, we explore the earliest adaptive functions of these behaviours. A comprehensive review of evolution was undertaken, searching for what contributed to the need for, and capacity to meet each behaviour. We found that these behaviours made significant contribution to the egalitarian, cooperative, sustainable and rich cultural nature of Nyoongar hunter-gatherer society.