Overview
This lecture examines the social system of "moka" gift exchange among the Kaaka tribe in Papua New Guinea, focusing on status, leadership, and cultural practices surrounding large ceremonial gifts of pigs and other valuables.
The Kaaka Tribe and Their Leaders
- The Kaaka tribe resides in the Western Highlands of Papua New Guinea and consists of around 1,000 people.
- Ana is the most prominent "big man" (tribal leader) of the Kaaka tribe, striving to earn status through moka.
- Pera, another big man and local member of the National Assembly, is the intended recipient of Ana's big moka.
The Moka Gift Exchange System
- Moka is a system of ceremonial gift-giving, mainly involving pigs, rare birds, money, and other valuables.
- Status among Highland men is determined by the size and generosity of the moka gifts they give.
- Moka gifts must be repaid with interest (more than received), often years later.
- Accumulating many pigs is difficult, so pigs are invested with others and returned for moka.
Organization and Challenges of the Big Moka
- Ana spent years organizing his big moka, persuading others to breed and contribute pigs.
- Leadership is based on influence and persuasion, not authority.
- Multiple small mokas feed into the big moka, each with rituals, speeches, and symbolic decorations.
- Money, now earned mainly through coffee sales, is part of the modern moka alongside pigs.
Social Dynamics and Conflicts
- Rivalry exists between big men, such as Ana and Rymer, over setting moka dates and claiming prestige.
- Major events (e.g., sudden deaths believed to be caused by sorcery) can interrupt or delay moka.
- Suspicion, mourning, and accusations can cause tribal tensions.
Rituals, Roles, and Labor
- Women, especially wives like Rle, play a major role in raising pigs and handling the workload.
- Ritual dances, feather decorations, and metaphorical speeches are key elements of moka ceremonies.
- Extra surprises, like cows and trucks, are added to increase prestige.
Resolution and Outcome
- Despite delays, accusations, and rivalry, Ana ultimately succeeded in giving his big moka: 600 pigs, $10,000, cows, a truck, and a motorbike.
- The act of giving, regardless of repayment, is the main source of glory and status.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Big Man — Influential tribal leader without formal authority, relies on persuasion.
- Moka — Ceremonial gift exchange system for gaining status, mainly involving pigs and valuables.
- Interest (in moka) — The requirement to return more than received in previous moka exchanges.
- Sorcery — Belief that deaths may be caused by magical acts of enemies.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the moka exchange process and its impact on leadership and social cohesion.
- Reflect on how traditional and modern elements coexist in moka (e.g., pigs and money).
- Prepare for discussion on the role of ritual, status, and conflict in social systems.