The hierarchical relation: A particular ideology or a general model?

Abstract

The hierarchical relationship introduced by Louis Dumont has yet to receive the attention it deserves. Drawing on Dumont’s own remarks, this text sets out to present the hierarchical model in a systematic fashion. After dealing with a number of definitional issues (the notions of encompassment, value, levels, ideology, etc.), it highlights the theoretical originality of this model and considers some of the questions it raises: What possible forms can it take? How does it relate to empirical facts? What mental processes does it presuppose?