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In a recent publication, A. Kardiner asserts that if children are not prevented from indulging in sexual play with each other they will have no Oedipus complex. After describing the Oedipus complex in his own terminology, Dr. Kardiner writes:
'This constellation was identified by Freud as the Oedipus complex and represents the consequence of an anxiety system created by repressive mechanisms. The Oedipus complex is therefore the record of such a repressive process, not as commonly assumed the cause of it';1 and in an earlier book, 'This particular constellation describes the pressure created on man by certain forms of restrictions on the sexual impulse'.2
The Baiga, in the Central Provinces of India, appear to have as much sexual freedom as any human group:
'Baiga children grow up free and unrestrained. They are underfed and often diseased; they suffer from itch and every possible affection of the eyes; not a few have hereditary or acquired venereal disease; but on the whole they have a happy life, for it is free.' When the Baiga see their children indulging in erotic play they simply laugh tolerantly. Sujji of Kawaraha said: 'If I catch my young daughter with a boy I let her alone. I don't beat her or abuse her; otherwise the neighbors may say, "Is she your wife or your daughter that you are so jealous? Why are you making trouble, you impotent old man? Let her do what she likes."3