Sample Summary
Original: "Although the practice of exchanging gifts is found in most societies, the meanings attached to gift giving vary widely from society to society. In some societies gifts may be given in a fairly altruistic manner—that is, nothing is expected in return. More often, however, gift giving is used to create and strengthen social bonds between people, and as such, some type of gift is expected in return" (Ferraro, 2001).
Summary: In almost all cultures people give gifts but for varying reasons. Although a return gift isn't always expected, in most cases a gift is given back because it establishes and confirms a mutual connection between the parties (Ferraro, 2001).
Ferraro, Gary. Cultural Anthropology: An Applied Perspective, Fourth Edition. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth/Thomson Learning, Inc. 2001.