Study-Guide Essay Questions for Mid-Term

The following is a selection from the mid-term essay questions which you submitted. Please keep in mind that most of the questions tend to be narrower in scope than the ones which you will encounter on the exam. Also, the essays on the exam will require you to address three authors chosen from a list of four. You will have to write one essay from a choice of two questions. The essay will be worth 70 points.

In thinking through possible answers for these questions in preparation for the mid-term, pay particular attention to formulating a clear, interesting, and arguable thesis statement. For more information about thesis statements and some examples, see the writing assignments handout.

1. Using three of the theorists we have studied, examine the validity of Smith's notion of homo economicus. Are all humans rational, economizing individuals who seek to maximize utility? Be sure to incorporate how this view or the absence of this view has contributed to the explanation for the existence of certain economic systems. For examples, choose from Engels, Marx, Scott, and Weber.

2. Choosing three of the authors we have read thus far, describe how culture relates to economy and whether it can be concluded through these readings that culture determines economic development. Choose from: Mauss, Engels, Weiner, Malinowski, Scott.

3. Define the broad concepts of the economy and human economic activity. Be sure to cover both the formalist and the substantivist perspective and cite specific examples. Evaluate the economy and economic activity of Sedaka prior to the Green Revolution as presented in Weapons of the Weak. Present an argument, incorporating both Scott's and Popkin's theories of the validity of a moral economy, as to whether a moral economy did exist in Sedaka.

4. Gift giving is an aspect that is evident in every traditional and contemporary society. It is the economic factor which reveals the cultural aspects of the particular society practicing the specific acts of gift giving. Aspects such as capitalism and its effects on gift giving have been explored by anthropologists such as Mauss and have been related to the classic traditional teachings of Marx. Discuss the different ways Mauss and Marx view the gift giving methods and rules of different societies. Include other anthropological studies which were done by Malinowski and Weiner to advance your discussion and argument.

5. Morgan gives a very structured and thorough definition of evolution. However, what are some underlying problems with his theory? How does Engels interpret Morgan? Does he support or dispute Morgan's theory?

6. How do the various authors we have studied discuss the idea of Homo Economicus? Based on your discussion, what do you find to be the key differences and similarities between anthropology and economics? Cite specific examples to create a strong argument.

7. Engels claims that women will feel liberated by entering into the public industry. Does this argument leave anything out in terms of the moral struggle of the working mother, and what does this suggest about Engels' argument?

8. People all over the world have different ways of exchanging goods. In our culture, things such as holidays warrant gift exchagne, whereas in other countries, there are planned forms of exchange that take place at various times throughout a year. Evaluate the potlatch, kula, and banana leaf bundle exchange systems as they pertain to their societies: what significance they play in preserving their cultures, in building relationships with others, and in establishing one's power in a society. How do they compare? In which ways are each different? Use the insight of the various anthropologists we have studied, such as Malinowski, Mauss, Weiner, and any others that apply, to enhance your argument.

 

For more information, contact:  aleshkow@holycross.edu