2. Giving, dominating and betraying

The chapter explores the complexity of giving, domination, and betrayal in human interactions, challenging the notion of a purely altruistic gift.

Norbert Alter argues that even seemingly selfless gifts carry expectations, as they contribute to building social bonds, fostering cooperation, and creating social capital.

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Examples like the Trobriand Islander exchange system show how gifts are both symbolic and strategic, helping individuals secure alliances or influence.

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In workplace dynamics, giving often mixes generosity with calculated benefits, fostering cooperation among employees and management but also creating hierarchies based on the capacity to give.

Social exchanges are stratified, with those holding more resources able to give more freely, strengthening their influence. However, social reciprocity is vital, as receiving without giving back depletes collective resources and strains relationships.