Book

The fame of Gawa: a symbolic study of value transformation in a Massim (Papua New Guinea) society

Cambridge University PressCambridge [Cambridgeshire] • Published In 1986 • Pages: xviii, 331

By: Munn, Nancy D..

Abstract
The author presents an innovative and sophisticated approach to the symbolic analysis of sociocultural systems, based on her study of the fundamental practices associated with value creation on Gawa, largest of the Marshall Bennett Islands of Papua New Guinea. The Gawans participate in the long-distance [n]kula[/n] exchange ring, and it is through the fame that they achieve in this interisland trade that the Gawan community asserts its own internal viability. The focus is on the transformative actions that take place by means of which Gawans seek to create value. Although the author stresses intersubjectivity and the existential forms of social worlds, she also develops the idea of a pervasive cultural logic that governs the various value-producing practices of the Gawans.
Subjects
Ethos
Functional and adaptational interpretations
Cultural identity and pride
Vegetable production
Gratification and control of hunger
Diet
Gift giving
Status, role, and prestige
Accumulation of wealth
Social relationships and groups
Visiting and hospitality
Sorcery
Magical and mental therapy
Magic
Verbal arts
Public lectures
Ethnogeography
Ethnopsychology
Division of labor by gender
culture
Northeastern Massim
HRAF PubDate
2015
Region
Oceania
Sub Region
Melanesia
Document Type
Book
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
John Beierle
Field Date
1973-1975, 1979-1981
Coverage Date
1973-1981
Coverage Place
Gawa, Marshall Bennett Islands, Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea
Notes
[by] Nancy D. Munn
Revision and expansion of the author's lectures originally given at the University of Rochester on Nov. 2, 4, 9, and 11, 1976.
Includes bibliographical references (p. 317-325)
LCCN
86017127
LCSH
Massim (Melanesian people)/Ceremonial exchange--Papua New Guinea/Values--Case studies/Social change--Case studies