Social Order and the Exchange of Liquor: A Theory of Drinking among Australian Aborigines

Abstract

In contrast to the traditional "social problems" approach, this paper argues that drinking among contemporary Australian Aborigines is a major way they construct their social relationships with each other. In particular, sharing liquor is a means of establishing credit and of marking an individual's personal productivity and affluence. Credit (in the form of domestic resources) is necessary in order for Aborigines to counter the long-term uncertainties in their ability to generate income. Hence, drinking is a crucial part of the way Aborigines rationally adapt to current circumstances.

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