What is the practice of marrying outside one's tribe or group called?

Marrying outside one's tribe or group is referred to as exogamy. This practice promotes the idea of forming alliances and expanding social networks by marrying individuals from different social, cultural, or ethnic backgrounds. It is often seen as a way to strengthen ties between different groups and enhance community relationships.

Exogamy can also help to reduce inbreeding and encourage genetic diversity, which is important for the health and viability of populations. In various cultures, exogamous practices are emphasized through social norms and regulations that encourage individuals to seek partners beyond their immediate social circles.

In contrast, endogamy refers to marrying within one's own social group, such as within a specific caste or ethnicity. Polyandry involves one woman having multiple husbands, while polygamy is a broader term that encompasses both polyandry and polygyny, where one man has multiple wives. Understanding these terms and their definitions is essential for comprehending the complexities of marriage practices in different cultures.