Funds of Knowledge

Funds of knowledge refers to the knowledge base a household has accumulated from the lived experiences and social practices of its members. In the case of working-class households, these social practices may include the formation of social networks with other households—both kin or otherwise—that may feature the reciprocal exchange of information, labor, or knowledge. Such exchanges are usually mundane or everyday occurrences, but the concept spotlights them as important aspects of household life. For example, someone with knowledge of auto mechanics may be asked to help repair a relative's or neighbor's car to avoid the expense of taking it to a commercial auto repair shop. In exchange, the person with automotive skills may later call on that relative or neighbor, who has knowledge about carpentry, ...