Overview
This lecture examines the moka gift-giving system among the Kawelka tribe in Papua New Guinea, focusing on the social, economic, and political roles of big men like Ongka.
Papua New Guinea Highlands & The Kawelka Tribe
- The Kawelka are one of many tribes in Papua New Guinea's western highlands.
- Leadership is held by “big men” like Ongka, who gain status through organizing moka gift exchanges.
The Moka System
- Moka is the name for large ceremonial gift-exchange events that primarily involve pigs but can also include money, rare birds, and vehicles.
- The objective of moka is to outdo neighboring tribes by giving larger and more prestigious gifts.
- Gifts must be repaid later with interest (“extra” above what was previously received).
Organizing a Big Moka
- Ongka spent years persuading and organizing his people to gather hundreds of pigs and other gifts.
- Big men have no formal authority; leadership relies on persuasion, negotiation, and alliances.
- Pig rearing is central, but people cannot accumulate many pigs—so they invest pigs with others and collect them before a moka.
Social Structure and Gender Roles
- Men organize moka and speeches; women, like Ongka's wife Rumbacall, raise pigs and manage daily work.
- Pigs are essential for status, marriage, and resolving disputes.
Economic and Social Investment
- Ongka invested pigs with other community members, expecting their return for the moka.
- Modern elements like money and trucks are added to increase prestige.
- Social events, speeches, and rituals accompany each stage of moka.
Conflict and Delays
- Tribal rivalries, accusations of sorcery, and deaths can disrupt moka preparations.
- Gifts like pigs can be sent to ease tensions, but suspicion may persist.
- Competition and sabotage among big men can further delay the event.
Final Outcome
- Despite setbacks, the big moka eventually took place with 600 pigs, $10,000, eight cows, and twelve rare birds.
- The main goal is to win prestige (“knock down” rivals) by giving the most impressive gift.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Moka — System of competitive gift-giving involving pigs and other valuables, designed to build status and repay earlier gifts with interest.
- Big Man — Informal leader who gains power through organizing and distributing moka gifts.
- Kawelka — A tribe in the Papua New Guinea highlands.
- Cassowary — Rare bird used as a special moka gift.
- Interest (in moka) — The extra gifts given above what was previously received.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review definitions and understand the social roles in moka.
- Prepare to discuss how moka functions as both an economic and social system.