The Gift: Form and Reason for Exchange in Archaic Societies

by Mary Douglas (Introduction), Marcel Mauss (Author), W.D.Halls (Author), W.D.Halls (Introduction)

• Used

  Hardcover
  1990

  $3.47

  A brilliant example of the comparative method, this classic work presents the first systematic study of the custom of exchanging gifts. It proves that the theory of the gift is the theory of all human society. This book should be of interest to students of sociology and social anthropology.

• Used

  Paperback
  1990

  $3.47

  First published in 1990. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.

• New

  Paperback
  2001

  $20.88

  In this, his most famous work, Marcel Mauss presented to the world a book which revolutionized our understanding of some of the basic structures of society. By identifying the complex web of exchange and obligation involved in the act of giving, Mauss called into question many of our social conventions and economic systems. In a world rife with runaway consumption, The Gift continues to excite and challenge.