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Study Guide Questions for Readings
Week 4: September 29
Read: Read: Malinowski, "Kula" (ERes article)
Mauss, The Gift, Introduction, Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 4
1. What is the kula? Why does Malinowski claim that it is economic? Do you agree with his reasoning?
2. Why does Mauss see exchange as linking not just persons and things, but different persons with each other? What are the moral and economic obligations surrounding gift exchange?
3. How does Mauss characterize pre-capitalist societies? How does his view compare to that of Engels?
4. Mauss ends his book by criticizing Western European capitalism for being "at odds with morality" (66). What, specifically, does he mean by this? Do you agree?
5. What does Mauss mean by a "total social fact"? Why is gift exchange one of these total social facts?
Question for Response Paper #3: Theories of Value and Exchange
Mauss describes capitalist change as failing to recognize the contribution that workers make in producing things. How does his analysis of value and alienation compare to that of Marx, especially in how they envision the relationship between economics, social relations, and culture? Be sure that you use this comparison to analyze the strengths, weaknesses, or significance of Mauss's argument and use of anthropological evidence.
For tips about crafting response papers, click here.
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For more information, contact: aleshkow@holycross.edu
