Question

You live in a society that is based on equal food sharing. If this doesn't happen, social practices like shaming, ostracizing, and banishment can occur. The underlying principle of this sharing is____________.

Answer 1

The principle behind the described society where food sharing is enforced and unequal distribution leads to social sanctions is known as generalized reciprocity, a form of distributive justice that promotes egalitarianism.

Step-by-step explanation:

The underlying principle of the society described, where food sharing is based on equal distribution and social sanctions like shaming, ostracizing, and banishment are used to maintain this system, is known as generalized reciprocity. This concept is a form of distributive justice where the exchange of goods and services occurs without regard for the value of objects or interest in compensation, promoting an egalitarian way of life where everyone contributes to and benefits from the shared resources equally.

In gatherer-hunter societies, generalized reciprocity is rigorously practiced to maintain an egalitarian social structure. This ensures that all members of the society have roughly the same level of material goods and services. Social practices serve to enforce moral norms within these communities and discourage behaviors such as greed and stinginess. Generosity is praised, and food sharing plays a central role in fostering a sense of community and equality.