Feb 24 2011: Let me echo the previous recommendation of Ernest Becker's 'The Denial of Death'. And, let me add 'Escape from Evil', the book Becker completed at the close of his short life.
Since you've explored Marcel Mauss you may find some familiar material in Chapter 2 of 'Escape from Evil'. But, being the polymath that he was, Becker generates further insights into the social constructs of gifts and giving. I'd be interested in reading your thoughts on some of the conclusions Becker draws:
*Giving was first directed to eternity (God, karma, nature) to achieve cosmic heroism (and deny finitude).
*Original human moeity resulted from a need to compete with and give to...an 'other'.
*Giving in primitive societies (more clearly than modern societies) demonstrated to self (and others) one's right to life.
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A comment on Conversation: What's the overlooked gem, the book I haven't read that I must?
Since you've explored Marcel Mauss you may find some familiar material in Chapter 2 of 'Escape from Evil'. But, being the polymath that he was, Becker generates further insights into the social constructs of gifts and giving. I'd be interested in reading your thoughts on some of the conclusions Becker draws:
*Giving was first directed to eternity (God, karma, nature) to achieve cosmic heroism (and deny finitude).
*Original human moeity resulted from a need to compete with and give to...an 'other'.
*Giving in primitive societies (more clearly than modern societies) demonstrated to self (and others) one's right to life.
Best regards,
Ben