Question

Which of the following actions or situations that one might see in America most nearly resembles the competitive feasting called potlatch, which converts wealth into prestige?

A) Thanksgiving dinner traditions
B) Birthday parties
C) Corporate banquets
D) Religious gatherings

Answer 1

The situation in America that resembles the potlatch tradition is Corporate banquets, where companies demonstrate their prestige by hosting lavish events.

Step-by-step explanation:

The action or situation in America that most nearly resembles the competitive feasting called potlatch, where wealth is converted into prestige, is C) Corporate banquets. The potlatch is a traditional ceremony of Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest where a host would display wealth and power by generously distributing gifts and providing elaborate feasts to guests. Similar to this practice, corporate banquets often involve companies spending significant amounts to host lavish events, where the goal is not only to treat guests but also to demonstrate the success and prestige of the company. While the specific motivations and cultural context differ, both use the giving away or consumption of wealth as a means to establish status.