Why Hunter-Gatherers' Work Was Play - by Peter Gray

Peter Gray argues that hunter-gatherer work was play because it was not excessive, was varied and skilled, was done socially, and, most importantly, was optional for each person on each day. He cites quantitative studies finding that hunter-gatherers typically spent about 20 hours per week hunting or gathering and another 10 to 20 hours on campsite chores, which is less than the 40 or more hours of paid work for a typical modern American. Gray also notes that anthropologist Marshall Sahlins called these societies "the original affluent society" because their wants were easily satisfied. In his account, individuals chose their tasks, and people who did not hunt or gather still received an equal share of the food.