Which statement accurately differentiates endogamy and exogamy?

• A. Endogamy requires marrying within a defined group (e.g., religion, caste); exogamy requires marriage outside such a group.
• B. Endogamy encourages alliances outside social groups.
• C. Exogamy is limited to within religious groups.
• D. Endogamy has no social boundary implications.

Answer: (A)

Endogamy and exogamy distinguish how marriage is bounded by social groups. Endogamy requires marrying within a defined group, such as a religion, caste, or kinship group, which reinforces and preserves boundaries, identities, and sometimes inherited status within that group. Exogamy requires marrying outside such a group, broadening kin networks and alliances beyond the defined social boundary.

That’s exactly what the statement captures: marrying inside a defined group and marrying outside that group. The other options miss the core distinction: endogamy does not encourage alliances outside social groups (it restricts them to inside); exogamy is not limited to within religious groups (it is about marrying outside one’s group); and endogamy clearly involves social boundary implications by design.