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19.18: How to Build Fictional Economies

Writing Excuses

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Gift Economy vs Capitalism: Collective Needs vs Owed Debts

In a gift economy, goods and services are provided without a direct expectation of return, with a belief that needs will be met collectively in the future. This concept contrasts with a capitalistic mindset where transactions are based on owing and being owed. In a gift economy, community growth is incentivized while in a capitalist society, individuals focus on winning through transactions. The transition from a capitalistic mindset to understanding the principles of a gift economy can be likened to polite battles over who pays the bill at dinner.

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