ABSTRACT
Superficial observation would lead us to assume that under strongly developed communal economics, governed by the principle of distribution, it would be impossible to possess or accumulate objects of value. But it is most of all in advanced systems of communal economics, such as that in Samoa and in the Maori communities, that private property is found to exist and objects of value, such as mats, are hoarded. Landed property, in the case of hunters and herdsmen and hoe-cultivators with sufficient space at their disposal, is the area from which the whole horde, clan, or settling community derives its means of livelihood and subsistence. Open springs and artificially opened water- holes are considered among the Dama as public property; but any one passing with a herd of cattle which he wishes to water is expected to inquire of the headman whether the supply of water is sufficient for the purpose.
