Paper short abstract:

The paper explores resilience and sustainability in contemporary kula exchange of Papua New Guinea. Based on current research, it argues that cash economy and patriarchy are undermining the ethics that govern kula.

Paper long abstract:

This paper will discuss a case of resilience and cooperation between Massim islanders and an anthropologist (me). The elders on Dobu, Fergusson, Egum, and Normanby islands of Papua New Guinea believe that their kula exchange system is currently at risk of losing its relevance. They are actively engaged in a project that aims at promoting kula for the younger generations while at the same time reducing the amounts of money required for contemporary kula. By presenting the key aspects of this project, the paper will argue that sustainability in the Massim hinges on inter-island relationships, on redistribution rather than accumulation of valuables, and on the overarching values of generosity, respect, and self-discipline that are at the heart of kula practice.