From Gift Exchange to Commodity Economy: Transformations in Livelihoods and Mountain-Basin Ethnic Interactions in Xishuangbanna of Southwest China

Abstract

Xishuangbanna is characterized by its typical mountain-basin geographical environment. Ethnic groups in the highlands and the basins (known as 坝 "ba", in Chinese, a local term for a basin) inhabit distinct ecological niches in this region, which gives rise to divergent livelihoods. Traditionally, economic complementarity between these areas fostered a classic gift economy, having established a relationship that was symbiotic, clearly demarcated, yet remarkably elastic, and forming a regional community both rich in cultural diversity and deeply interdependent. However, as livelihoods have evolved, the gift economy has shifted to a commodity economy, dissolving the traditional patterns of complementary exchange. Increased mobility and growing individualization have gradually weakened the traditional bonds between highland and basin communities, though ethnic integration has become more pronounced. This transformation of livelihoods has also led to profound changes in human-environment, interpersonal and inter-group relations. Yet, these changes have unfolded upon the foundation of traditional social structures, moving towards a new dynamic equilibrium. In this sense, one can speak of a 'fluid community'. These continuously evolving patterns of ethnic interaction provide a valuable lens for understanding the intrinsic mechanisms of interpersonal and inter-group connections.