Gives a collection of studies of Papua New Guinea cultures, each isolating one key concept that is believed to define the whole of that culture.
Include concepts about
- the 'big man' in the 'father-of-the-village' role
- the pig, which highlights important values in Melanesian culture
- shell money, used among people of New Britain, and
- mami 'yam'.
Table of Contents
Preface
- “Pigs Are Our Hearts”: A Functional Study of the Pig in Melanesia
Daniel D. Rath - Of Pigs, Men, and Life: A Glimpse at Wiru Society
Michael Fullingim - Duke of York Shell Money: A Mediator of Relationships
Dean and Dianne Moore - Mami Reveals Dynamic Kwanga Social Structure
Takashi Manabe - The Interrelationship of Taboo and Kinship as the Cohesive Agent of Saniyo-Hiyowe Society
Ronald K. Lewis - Feasts: Celebration or Obligation?
Judy Kennedy - The Intermediary and Social Distance in Western Torres Strait
Rodney J. Kennedy
