On October 29, Dr. Simeon Magliveras, Assistant Professor of Cultural Anthropology, gave a talk entitled Patron-Client Social Relations in Everyday "Doing Business”. This talk discussed the different types of social networks and the reasons why patron/client social relations are essential part of "doing business" in everyday life. It also explored the nature of patron-client social networks and the different forms they take. Dr. Magliveras explained how patron-client relations are not merely someone doing favors for another, but are associated with a moral code of behavior that is deeply embedded in everyday life. He argued that these types of networks are essential to everyday life and though there are some negative aspects associated with patron/clientism, there are also enabling aspects. In addition, Dr. Magliveras discussed advantages and disadvantages of patron-client systems using Greece as a case study. In conclusion, he compared Northern and Southern European attitudes to patron-client relations and how misunderstandings of what constitutes patronage can lead to confusion and sometimes abuse.

This well-attended presentation prompted a series of interesting questions from faculty members and students that resulted in further discussion and comment.