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Ask HN: What was the first profession and why?
In my language if someone tells about a "representative(ness) of the oldest profession" he means an euphemism way to tell "a prostitute". But it is obviously a lie, because prostitutes cost money and money is a traders' invention. So, how do you thing, what profession was first and why do you think so? My opinion is that the first profession must be either trader or warrior, but I would like to listen to other opinions.
- neximo64 6y agoThere is such a thing as barter which doesnt need the invention of money.
- jimmyvalmer 6y ago> Prostitutes cost money. That's odd. The prostitutes I visit don't charge me anything so long as I clothe, feed, and shelter them. Also content with iphones and handbags.
- db48x 6y agoProstitution does not require money, it requires trade. Trade, or the mutual satisfaction of values or preferences through the exchange of goods or services, is not a concept that requires much thought to invent. https://www.nytimes.com/2005/06/05/magazine/monkey-business.html https://www.nytimes.com/2005/06/05/magazine/monkey-business....
- rmk 6y agoA profession relies on specialized know-how and or tools. In my view, the skilled chippers of flakes from stone suitable for making tools would qualify as the first professionals. Making an arrowhead, ax, or a chopper by flaking pieces off a suitable rock is definitely an acquired skill.