#2256
Mentioned in 20 episodes
The Gift
The Form and Reason for Exchange in Archaic Societies
Book • 1923
In 'The Gift', Marcel Mauss explores the concept of gift exchange in various cultures, particularly in societies without monetary exchange or legal structures.
He argues that gifts are not freely given but are part of a complex system of social obligations involving giving, receiving, and reciprocating.
Mauss examines practices such as the potlatch among North American peoples and the kula in Melanesia, emphasizing the role of gifts in binding people together in a web of reciprocal commitments.
The book also discusses the spiritual and economic implications of gift-giving, highlighting its significance in understanding social relations and cultural practices.
He argues that gifts are not freely given but are part of a complex system of social obligations involving giving, receiving, and reciprocating.
Mauss examines practices such as the potlatch among North American peoples and the kula in Melanesia, emphasizing the role of gifts in binding people together in a web of reciprocal commitments.
The book also discusses the spiritual and economic implications of gift-giving, highlighting its significance in understanding social relations and cultural practices.
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 20 episodes
Recommended by 
Seth Godin as a book exploring the history of gifts and their impact on human relationships.
Seth Godin as a book exploring the history of gifts and their impact on human relationships.
16 snips
81: An Agent of Change (Seth Godin)
Recommended by 
Margaret Atwood to writing students; it explores the nature of art and its relationship to money.
Margaret Atwood to writing students; it explores the nature of art and its relationship to money.
Margaret Atwood on Canada, Writing, and Invention (Live at Mason)
