Book

Persistence of the gift: Tongan tradition in transnational context

Wilfrid Laurier University PressToronto, Ontario • Published In 2001 • Pages:

By: Evans, Mike.

Abstract
In this book, Evans argues for the continued presence of a gift economy in spite of Tonga's incorporation into the world capitalist system. According to Evans the traditional forms of labor and food exchange continue to operate at the village level, at least on the island where he did his fieldwork. The flow of wealth and food still moves along kinship networks, albeit now transnational in scope. Cash has entered the economy, however, it is treated in many instances as another form of gift. Social relationships still matter, although limited to more immediate familial and village relationships.
Subjects
Mats and basketry
Real property
Exchange and transfers
Status, role, and prestige
Visiting and hospitality
Household
Kin relationships
Kindreds and ramages
Territorial hierarchy
culture
Tongans
HRAF PubDate
2006
Region
Oceania
Sub Region
Polynesia
Document Type
Book
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Ian Skoggard; 2004
Field Date
1991-1993
Coverage Date
1991-1993
Coverage Place
Ha'ano Island, Ha'apai region, Tonga
Notes
Mike Evans
Includes bibliographical references (p. 189-201) and index
LCCN
c20019304714
LCSH
Tongans