RECIPROCITY

direct exchange of goods and services

usually conceived as a process of balancing values a one for one exchange
but Marshal Sahlins has pointed out that three types of reciprocity exist

3 Kinds of Reciprocity (Sahlins)

1. Generalized
An exchange that happens without any explicit statement that anything is

expected in return at any definite time in the future

Any transaction that appears to be altruistic, such as help, sharing and hospitality
The obligation to reciprocate is vague
Material aspects of transactions are less significant than moral/social aspects
The value or quantity of return to donor is undefined
Despite the vague obligation to reciprocate, failure to do so does not usually stop

the giver from giving again

Usually occurs among close kin

Examples:
meat distribution among !Kung (lolidk check kats ppt)
family pooling of resources, even birthday presents
2. Balanced
A direct exchange where one thing is exchanged for another of equal value
without delay (or within definite time)
The value of gift is calculated; time of repayment is specified
The social relationships underlying balanced transactions is less personal and
more economic than that underlying generalized reciprocity
The material aspects of transaction are as important as social aspects
Usually occurs among distant kin
Examples:
Mwali: expects a red necklace of equal value in return
Kula ring, Trobriand Islands
Functions:

Giving up self interest/hostility for sake of mutual benefit hence a vehicle for

many types of social contracts

To generate a friendly feeling, a degree of sociability, regardless of values
involved (marriage transactions and formal friendships)

3. Negative
An exchange where one party tries to get the better of the exchange from the other

party
Both parties attempt to gain all they can from the exchange while giving up as

little as possible (if anything at all)

Material aspects of transactions are all important
Two sides involved in the transactions are entirely opposed
The flow of goods is in one direction only (lol insert a pic of the boys here

hahaha)
It is an act of taking rather than giving
Usually occurs among unrelated persons

Examples:
Deception, theft, cheating, hard bargaining
Horse raids
Selling prepared food to a captive marker