Autonomía, socialización y comunidad tseltal

Abstract

In this work, autonomy among the Tseltal in the state of Chiapas, Mexico is characterized, identifying some of the basic traditional socialization and social integration models. A hypothesis is presented regarding trends in the rupture with traditional ancestral forms of integration and solidarity. We approach the issue through Tseltal language, social organization and political history as three complementary dimensions. The reader is given a broad perspective of socialization, in order that social integration and its most important ruptures may be understood. For the most part, two levels of autonomy are considered; the small community and the "Indian region" or "community of communities". The family level is also discussed.