Question

Barter was more feasible in primitive societies than in modern societies because?

A) Modern societies have a more developed monetary system
B) Primitive societies had fewer goods and services
C) Primitive societies had a simpler economic structure
D) Modern societies value barter more than primitive societies

Answer 1

Primitive societies were better suited for barter due to their simpler economic structures, whereas modern societies have complex economies with developed monetary systems making barter impractical.

Step-by-step explanation:

Barter was more feasible in primitive societies than in modern societies primarily because primitive societies had a simpler economic structure (C). In these early communities, the range of goods and services was limited, and the economic transactions were straightforward, often relying on a direct exchange of goods. Additionally, early societies often engaged in gift exchange, redistribution, and debt, rather than simple direct barter, which facilitated a system of mutual credit among community members.

In contrast, modern societies have a more developed monetary system (A), with a complex division of labor and thousands of different goods and services. This complexity makes it impractical to rely on barter, as it would require a double coincidence of wants, where two parties each have what the other desires. Instead, money serves as a medium of exchange, widely accepted as payment, solving the inefficiencies of the barter system.