Understanding Gift: From Mauss to Derrida
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51983/arss-2019.8.2.1597Keywords:
Gift, Obligations, Exchange, Honour, Return GiftAbstract
This paper probes into the practice of gift-giving and tries to find out the true character of gift. The paper begins with the common perception about gifts and proceeds to present an insightful analysis of Marcel Mauss’ understanding of gift. It then delves into Jacques Derrida’s take on the subject. The paper brings out the moments of convergences and divergences in thoughts of Mauss and Derrida before drawing up some conclusions about the nature of gift and its differences with other forms of exchange.
References
Derrida, J. (1994). Given Time: I. Counterfeit Money (P. Kamuf, Trans.) (Paperback Edition). Chicago: The University of Chicago Press. (Original work published 1991).
Derrida, J. (2008). The Gift of Death (2nd Ed.) and Literature in Secret (D. Wills, Trans.). Chicago: The University of Chicago Press. (Original work published 1999).
Emerson, R.W. (1898). Essays (Second Series, Volume III, Emerson's Complete Works). London: George Routledge and Sons, Limited.
Mauss, M. (2011). The Gift: Forms and Functions of Exchange in Archaic Societies (I. Cunnison, Trans.). Mansfield Centre, CT 06250 USA: Martino Publishing. (Original work published 1954).
Titmus, R.M. (1970). The Gift Relationship: From Human Blood to Social Policy. London: George Allen & Unwin Ltd.
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