The name is absent

(2) Selectivity in adopting certain new elements

(3) The development of basic rules and symbols of the
group (Sorokin, 1947:3,82).

Items (1) and (3) have been examined above in
discussing the place of the Law within the group, and the possibilities
of adaptations. Selectivity in adopting new elements has also
been discussed (p. 176). Further reference will also be made to
this area later (p.241) where certain dangers to the cohesion of
the group will be discussed.

12.52 External factors of continuity

These consist of what Sorokin (1947) terms the ’components of
the vehicles of the group', for example, property, possessions, language
which serve to give group coherence.

The following external factors of continuity will now be
examined:

(i) Language

(ii) Territory

(iii) Possessions (a) ^,guruwari^,
(b) housing

(iv) Schooling

(i) Language

Berger (1971:96, 97) states that language is "the foundation
and the instrumentality of the social construction of reality".

Kolig (1977:39-40), studying tradition-oriented Aborigines,
saw language as the main determinant for defining man, the human,
over .and against aliens. He states.

Language traditionally is seen by Aborigines as of
pre-eminent importance and as a determinant of full
humanity. Somebody not speaking the same language
was not only considered significantly different, but
also fundamentally different. The importance of

¹J

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