📚 Topic Summary
In non-monetary systems, people meet their needs through various methods other than exchanging currency. These systems often rely on bartering, where goods and services are directly exchanged, or on communal sharing, where resources are distributed based on need rather than individual wealth. Social relationships and reciprocal obligations play a crucial role, fostering community bonds and ensuring everyone has access to essential resources. Understanding these systems helps us appreciate alternative economic models and the importance of social capital.
Non-monetary systems can also involve traditional practices like gifting, where items are given without expectation of immediate return, strengthening social ties and promoting cooperation. By examining these diverse approaches, we gain insights into how societies can organize themselves to provide for their members' well-being outside the conventional framework of money-based economies.
🧠 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the following terms with their definitions:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Bartering |
A. Resources are distributed based on need. |
| 2. Communal Sharing |
B. Giving items without expecting immediate return. |
| 3. Reciprocal Obligation |
C. Exchanging goods and services directly. |
| 4. Gifting |
D. The wealth, knowledge, or resources available in a community. |
| 5. Social Capital |
E. An understanding of mutual exchange or support. |
(Answers: 1-C, 2-A, 3-E, 4-B, 5-D)
✍️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following paragraph with the correct words:
In a non-monetary system, individuals often rely on _________ instead of money. _________ involves the direct exchange of goods and services. _________ sharing ensures resources are distributed based on _________. Practices like _________ strengthen social ties within the community.
(Answers: bartering, Bartering, Communal, need, gifting)
💡 Part C: Critical Thinking
How might a community benefit from using non-monetary systems in addition to monetary systems?