The Anthropology of Gifts: Economic and Social Dimensions

This examination evaluates the economic and social dimensions of gift practices across cultures, with a special focus on the roles that gifts play in establishing social bonds and economic relationships in non-Western societies.

Gift-giving practices often exemplify the intersection of economics and social relations, which is essential for understanding cultural norms and values related to reciprocity and obligation. This understanding can inform broader anthropological theories about exchange.

The exam will assess students' ability to articulate the various functions of gift-giving and its implications for social networks and economic relationships. Students must draw on specific examples to support their arguments.

Candidates should prepare to engage in discussions regarding the complexities of gift practices and their significance in cultural contexts, preparing them for critical analysis.