Talk:Gift/Archives/2019

Lead

The lead states that a gift is given "without the expectation of payment or anything in return". However, I don't think this is necessarily true—there is often a cultural or social expectation (for instance, in Japan, there is a strong cultural expectation that gifts be reciprocated). That being said, I'm not sure what a better definition is—any ideas? (talk to) Gaelan('s contributions) 04:50, 5 January 2019 (UTC)

Gaelan That is a very good point. This is commonly seen on Wikipedia where there is a large focus on Western content. I also think the "Promotional Gift" section can be much improved upon but that can be worked on later. I like the explanation about gift economy so I think that should still be included. How about this:

"A gift or a present is an item given to someone often as a way to express appreciation, forgiveness, kindness, or sustain social relations and contribute to social cohesion. Expectations of gifts and types of gifts vary by culture. In some cultures, it is customary on certain holidays to exchange gifts as well, as seen in the Chinese New Year, Christmas, Wedding anniversary, and birthdays.

Gifts can also be used as a form of bribery or brand promotion where the expectation is the return of something. Brands often give gifts to promoters as a way to spread awareness of their brand. In many countries, groups such as government workers may have strict rules concerning gift giving and receiving so as to avoid the appearance of impropriety (maybe elaborate, I am Canadian so I can say in a Canadian context there is a limit to how much money/gifts one can donate). Economists have elaborated on the economics of gift-giving into the notion of a gift economy."

There should probably be a bit more on Capitalistic culture but this is what I've got. HickoryOughtShirt?4 (talk) 05:10, 5 January 2019 (UTC)