Contracts vs. Gifts: The Tension of Exchange

This chapter examines the intricate dynamics between contracts and gifts, particularly through the lens of eroticism and philosophical insights from Hegel and Lacan. It contrasts romanticized views of gift-giving as altruistic with critiques that expose underlying self-interest and social obligations, challenging the perceived superiority of gifts over contracts. By delving into traditional gift economies, such as potlatch, and their implications for contemporary social relations, the discussion uncovers the deeper meanings and potential alienation inherent in both forms of exchange.