Risk is becoming an increasingly important factor in anthropological explanation. Cultural practices are often explained in terms of the advantages they provide, and one important advantage is the ability to cope with or to reduce risk. Foraging strategies (Winterhalder 1986a, b), settlement systems (Wiessner 1982a), the development of tribal social networks (Braun & Plog 1982), peasant morality (Godoy 1985, Scott 1976), decision making, agricultural and pastoral practices (Browman 1987, Cancian 1980), and modern American attitudes toward pollution (Douglas & Wildavsky 1982) have all been explained, at least in part, as responses to risk. In this essay I explore the operation of risk reduction strategies, with specific focus on sharing in agricultural economies. Data derive from a computer simulation model based on historic Pueblo (Hopi) agricultural strategies.