Tit for Tat: Barter Markets in the Middle Sepik

Using field data on four middle Sepik linguistic and cultural groups, which are economically interrelated through fish-for-sago barter markets, this paper demonstrates that there is an inverse relation between economic independence and postural aggressiveness; the same relationship also exists between males and females within the fish-supplying villages. It is suggested that it is in the interest of vulnerable groups to maintain an economic advantage, paying for autonomy with a show of deference.