An older Nuer wife might take another woman as a "wife." Why would she do so?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In Nuer society, a woman's value is often determined by the amount of livestock she brings into the marriage. By taking another woman as a "wife," an older wife can increase the family's wealth by incorporating the new wife's livestock holdings into the family's. This can also help ensure the continuation of the family lineage in case the older wife is unable to bear children or if her children do not survive. The other options (A, C, and D) are not common reasons for co-wives in Nuer society.

An Older Nuer Wife Might Take Another Woman as a "Wife