Arts & Culture
The Gift Economy and the Maintenance of Social Hierarchies in Polynesian Societies
Quick fact
In many Polynesian societies, the obligation to reciprocate gifts—called the 'hau'—ensures that chiefs, by giving generously, place their people in permanent debt, which translates into political power and social standing.
Why this is interesting
You are at a Polynesian feast where a chief gives away enormous quantities of food and valuable goods. But who is really gaining power in this moment of generosity?