Final answer:
Gifts are given voluntarily and carry emotional or symbolic value, while commodities are goods or services produced for sale and consumption in the market.
Step-by-step explanation:
The distinction between gifts and commodities lies in their characteristics and the purpose they serve. Gifts are usually given voluntarily and are not expected to be reciprocated immediately. They often carry emotional or symbolic value. On the other hand, commodities are goods or services that are produced for sale and consumption in the market. They have a monetary value and are intended to satisfy the wants and needs of consumers.
For example, if a friend brings you a homemade cake for your birthday, it can be considered a gift because it is given out of goodwill and does not require any explicit exchange. However, if you buy a cake from a bakery for your birthday, it is a commodity because you pay for it and the transaction follows the rules of the market.
In summary, gifts are personal expressions of generosity, while commodities are intended for exchange and consumption in the market.