The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World

A gift economy is a system of exchange where goods and services are given freely without an explicit expectation of return, fostering social bonds and reciprocity. Unlike market economies, value is determined by relationships, generosity, and community well-being rather than price or profit. Kimmerer provides examples of this model from Indigenous cultures, communal societies, and modern digital spaces like open-source software. The Serviceberry advocates for gift economies as a way to shield humanity from destructive forms of capitalism.

Indigenous American culture encompasses the diverse traditions, languages, beliefs, and practices of the Indigenous peoples of North America, rooted in deep connections to land, community, and ancestry. It values reciprocity, storytelling, and sustainability, often emphasizing harmony with nature and collective well-being. Despite centuries of colonization and adversity, Indigenous cultures continue to thrive through resilience, adaptation, and revitalization efforts. Kimmerer uses her experience and understanding of Indigenous culture and traditions to posit an alternative to the modern economic model of the Western world.

The serviceberry plant (Amelanchier spp.) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to North America, known for its delicate, white flowers in spring; edible, berry-like fruits in summer; and vibrant fall foliage. Its sweet, blueberry-like fruits are enjoyed by both wildlife and humans, often used in jams, pies, and fresh eating. Kimmerer uses the titular plant as a symbol of the potential inherent in gift economies, centering the book’s thematic focus on The Natural World as Inspiration for Economic Reform.