Question

When speaking to a group of anthropologists, a band of hunter-gatherers claim to be self-sufficient, yet they consume coffee and canned Campbell's soup. Is this an example of self-sufficiency?

Answer 1

Self-sufficiency does not mean complete isolation or absence of any external resources. Hunter-gatherers claiming to be self-sufficient but consuming coffee and canned Campbell's soup may have acquired these items through trade or other forms of exchange. This example highlights the complexities of self-sufficiency.

Step-by-step explanation:

Self-sufficiency refers to the ability of a group to meet their needs without relying on external sources. In the case of the hunter-gatherers claiming to be self-sufficient but consuming coffee and canned Campbell's soup, this may appear contradictory. However, it is important to understand that self-sufficiency does not mean complete isolation or absence of any external resources. These hunter-gatherers may have acquired coffee and canned soup through trade or other forms of exchange, while still being able to meet their basic needs independently. This example highlights the complexities of self-sufficiency and how it can be interpreted differently in different contexts.