2006-10-30 14:21:21 · 2 answers · asked by Anonymous in Education & Reference ➔ Higher Education (University +)
What a cool assignment!
I assume you have read Mauss's book, "The Gift." If not, or if you've had trouble understanding it, see this website. But don't plagiarize from it -- you'll definitely get caught if you do. (I'd spot plagiarism from this site a mile away.)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kula_ring
Then think about the kula ring. What kind of things are exchanged? Do Americans give the same kind of things?
What does the giving of these gifts do for the giver in New Guinea? Is it the same in the US?
Who is allowed to give gifts in New Guinea? To whom? Again, is it the same in the US?
What expectations surround the participation in the kula ring in New Guinea? Are there expectations for Americans in the gift-giving process? How are they different? How are they the same?
How is the value of a gift determined in New Guinea? Is it the same in the US? Why or why not?
Think about Mauss' differentiation between "gift" and "commodity." That should provide you with a great thesis statement right there.
Good luck, and have fun!
2006-10-30 16:19:50 · answer #1 · answered by X 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Most Americans are very generous in gift giving to their relatives and friends on such occasions as birthdays and Christmas. They do not ordinarily give presents in the hope of obtaining a favor.
2006-10-30 22:50:36 · answer #2 · answered by Serendipity 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋