How Do You Spell MARCEL MAUSS?

Pronunciation: [mɑːsˈɛl mˈɔːs] (IPA)

Marcel Mauss is a French sociologist and anthropologist whose work has greatly influenced the social sciences. The spelling of his name is "mar-sel mohs" in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced with the vowel sound "ah," the second syllable with the vowel sound "eh," and the final syllable with the consonant sound "s." Paying attention to pronunciation and spelling is essential in academia, as it ensures proper attribution and understanding of theoretical works.

MARCEL MAUSS Meaning and Definition

  1. Marcel Mauss (1872-1950) was a French sociologist and anthropologist known for his significant contributions to the fields of sociology, anthropology, and comparative religious studies. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the development of modern social theory.

    Mauss is best known for his groundbreaking work on gift exchange and reciprocity. In his seminal work, "The Gift: Forms and Functions of Exchange in Archaic Societies" (1925), Mauss examines the social, cultural, and economic aspects of gift-giving in different societies throughout history. He argues that gift exchange is not simply an act of generous donation, but an intricate social and economic system that maintains social relationships, power dynamics, and obligations.

    Mauss's concept of the "gift" goes beyond material objects and includes intangible elements such as services, hospitality, and social recognition. He highlights the complex web of social obligations and expectations that arise from the act of giving and receiving, and emphasizes its crucial role in the maintenance of social cohesion.

    Additionally, Mauss contributed to the understanding of the body as a social phenomenon. He explored bodily techniques and rituals in different cultural contexts, highlighting how they shape social and individual experiences. His work on bodily practices and techniques of the self has influenced various disciplines, including sociology, anthropology, and philosophy.

    Overall, Marcel Mauss revolutionized the study of social exchange and the understanding of social phenomena, providing scholars with valuable insights into the intricacies of human sociality and cultural practices.

Etymology of MARCEL MAUSS

The word "Marcel Mauss" is not a word but rather a proper noun consisting of two names: Marcel and Mauss.

Marcel is a given name of French origin, derived from the Latin name Marcellus, meaning "young warrior" or "little hammer". Mauss, on the other hand, is a surname of French origin.

Therefore, the etymology of the name "Marcel Mauss" does not follow the typical etymological analysis, as it is a combination of two distinct French names.