essay

What moves the Kula: opening and closing gifts on Woodlark Island

kula : new perspectives on massim exchangeCambridge • Published In 1983 • Pages: 309-342

By: Damon, Frederick H..

Abstract
This is a study of the nature of the relationship between [n]vags[/n] (opening gifts) and [n]gulugwals[/n] (return gifts), stressing their equivalency and noting how they may be transformed into [n]kitoums[/n] (personally owned valuables) in the context of the [n]kula[/n] exchange. It begins with an overview of Muyuw geography, kinship, and recent history, then proceeds with a detailed functional analysis of the [n]kula[/n] as it operates on the island.
Subjects
Theoretical orientation in research and its results
Gift giving
Exchange transactions
Status, role, and prestige
Accumulation of wealth
Social relationships and groups
Community structure
Acculturation and culture contact
Functional and adaptational interpretations
Status, role, and prestige
Lineages
Clans
Borrowing and lending
culture
Northeastern Massim
HRAF PubDate
2015
Region
Oceania
Sub Region
Melanesia
Document Type
essay
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
4: Excellent Secondary Data
Analyst
John Beierle
Field Date
1973-1975
Coverage Date
1973-1975
Coverage Place
Muyuw, Alcester, Egum Atoll and Laughlan Atoll island groups, Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea
Notes
[by] Frederick H. Damon
Includes bibliographical references (p. 539-548)
LCCN
82004142
LCSH
Kula exchange/Massim (Melanesian people)/Commerce, Primitive--Melanesia