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Which of the following activities is generally considered a swing (male or female) activity in divisions of labor?

a-making pottery
b-gathering fuel (e.g. firewood)
c-butchering
d-cooking
e-hunting

1 Answer

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Final answer:

In gatherer-hunter societies, gathering fuel is a swing activity in the division of labor, meaning both men and women can partake in it, which shows the flexibility in gender roles.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the activities usually considered in the division of labor in gatherer-hunter societies, gathering fuel (e.g., firewood) is one that is generally seen as a swing activity, meaning it is not strictly gendered and can be performed by both males and females. This flexibility is noted in the discussion of gendered divisions of labor where both women and men contribute to the gathering of food and other resources, although traditionally, activities such as hunting larger game are associated more with men and gathering plant foods with women. However, the strict dichotomy between 'man the hunter' and 'woman the gatherer' has been challenged by archaeological evidence showing that women also partook in hunting activities. Therefore, gathering fuel stands out as the activity that can swing between male and female roles within these societies.

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