In this respect they seem to differ from the phratry and totem names, which, as we have tried to show, are things of long and unconscious evolution. But conscious purpose is evident in the institution of matrimonial classes. We tentatively suggest that, if their names turn out to be usually names of animals and other objects, this occurs because animal-named sub-phratries once existed, and were converted into the mechanism of the classes; or because the pre-existing totemic system of nomenclature was preserved in the development of a new institution. Herr Cunow's theory that the class names mean "Young," "Old," "Big," "Little" (Kubbi = Kubbura, "young"; Kunibo = Kombia, Kumbia, Gumboka, "great or old"), needs a wide and assured etymological basis.[16] Dr. Durkheim's hypothesis appears to assume that "clans," exogamous, with female descent, are territorial, which (see Chapter V.) is not possible.
Whatever their names may mean, the matrimonial classes were instituted to prevent marriage between persons of parental and filial generations.
[1] Kamilaroi and Kurnai, pp. 59, 60.
[2] Native Tribes of South-East Australia, p. III.
[3] Ibid., p. 118.
[4] Totemism, p. 84. Cf. Kamilaroi and Kurnai, p. 41.
[5] J. A. I., 1885, p. 143. Cf. Note 4.
[6] J. A. I., xiii. pp. 336, 341.
[7] Native Tribes of South-East Australia, p. 116.