An anthropologist's view of exchange

Abstract

Abstract Exchange through markets is the most significant means by which goods move from person to person, though it should be placed in the context of exchange in general. Anthropologists have noted that the Trobriand Islanders of Melanesia distinguish between approximately 80 forms of exchange between people in various status relationships. Though this may appear outlandish our own systems display similar, though less pronounced, features. Even though we may feel that the market exchange process is dominated by rationality and the calculus of utility anthropologists assert that economic activity is part of culture and a product of social organization. The consequences are far reaching, both in the developed world and particularly in countries where the market is a less important element among all forms of exchange.