Question

Which of the following are arguments given by Alfred Gell to explain the significance of market beyond its economic function?
(A) Layout of the market symbolizes the hierarchical inter-group social relations of that region.
(B) Few goods are free in the market for groups lower in the hierarchy.
(C) Different social groups are located according to their position in the caste hierarchy and hierarchical market system.
(D) Interactions between tribals and non-tribal traders are based on social inequalities.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (D) only
• B. (A) and (C) only
• C. (A), (B), (C) and (D)
• D. (A), (C) and (D) only

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Alfred Gell, a noted anthropologist, has examined the market beyond its traditional economic perspective, focusing on its socio-cultural implications. Here is a detailed breakdown of his arguments: 

1. Layout of the Market: Gell argues that the spatial arrangement of markets is not merely for convenience but reflects and symbolizes the hierarchical inter-group social relations in that region. This means that the way markets are organized physically can indicate the social hierarchies and relationships between different communities and classes, highlighting their status and role in society.
2. Social Group Locations: According to Gell, markets are often arranged such that different social groups occupy spaces according to their ranking in the caste hierarchy. This hierarchical market system not only serves economic functions but also sustains and reinforces social inequalities by physically manifesting these social distinctions within the market space itself.
3. Interactions Based on Social Inequalities: Gell observes that interactions between different groups, such as tribals and non-tribal traders, are often influenced by existing social inequalities. These interactions are not conducted on an equal basis but are rather shaped by the pervasive social hierarchies, making economic transactions a reflection of social dynamics.

Based on this understanding, the correct answer is: (A), (C) and (D) only. These options directly correlate with Gell's socio-cultural examination of market structures, emphasizing that market functionality extends beyond economic transactions to embody and enforce existing social hierarchies and relationships.

Answer 2

Alfred Gell, in his analysis of the market, argued that the significance of the market extends beyond its economic function. He pointed out how markets are deeply intertwined with social relations and hierarchies. Let's review the provided options:

(A) Layout of the market symbolizes the hierarchical inter-group social relations of that region - This is true. Gell argued that the physical layout of the market reflects the social relations in the region, including power dynamics and the hierarchy between different social groups.

(B) Few goods are free in the market for groups lower in the hierarchy - This is true. Gell pointed out that the market often reflects social inequalities, and certain goods are not easily accessible to those in lower positions in the social hierarchy.

(C) Different social groups are located according to their position in the caste hierarchy and hierarchical market system - This is true. Gell argued that the market system reflects the caste hierarchy, with different social groups occupying different spaces in the market depending on their social status.

(D) Interactions between tribals and non-tribal traders are based on social inequalities - This is true. Gell observed that the interaction between different groups in the market, especially between tribal and non-tribal groups, is shaped by social inequalities that influence the flow of goods and power dynamics.

Thus, the correct answer is Option 3: (A), (B), (C) and (D).