24. Reciprocity and Gratitude: Beyond the Words

⁠Podcast transcript (pdf) Today’s show is titled “Reciprocity and Gratitude: Beyond the Words.” We’re going to examine how the meaning of these two terms, reciprocity and gratitude, have changed since the European settlers of North America first celebrated a harvest festival in 1621. We will explore the differences between the cultural concepts of reciprocity and gratitude in European and colonial society on the one hand and Native American communities on the other. We’ll examine why people in mainstream society have become increasing interested in Indigenous versions of reciprocity and gratitude. And finally, we will point to practical steps that members of mainstream society can take to incorporate some of the wisdom of Indigenous culture into the ways we give thanks and reciprocate for the bounty we receive and the communities in which we live.