Culture and Democracy in the South Pacific

The very diverse cultures of the Pacific Islands are highly valued, though not in the precise forms they took on a century or more ago, as unique expressions of the ethos of the peoples concerned. The concept of democracy is also valued. The word is introduced, but not necessarily the practice, for some Pacific cultures have been among the world s most democratic since long before contact with European societies. Other Pacific societies are very hierarchical, with chiefly systems based on aristocratic privilege. There are many other forms in the vast range of Pacific cultures. The ideas and values implicit in the term democracy are congruent with some cultural principles in some Pacific societies, and in conflict with others. This is no different from other parts of the world, except that the nature of the differences here is unique. This important book, written by some of the Pacific s leading thinkers in the fields of politics, culture and philosophy, exp! lores these vital areas of congruence and conflict, and recommends solutions for the future. There are no easy or unequivocal answers, but the thoughtful suggestions of particular authors will help all persons interested in the Pacific Islands to deepen their understanding of these complex issues.