Book

Fa'a'nakkar cultural values in a Micronesian society

Department of Anthropology, University of Pennsylvania (2) • Published In 1977 • Pages: x, 180

By: Caughey, John L..

Abstract
In this study, Caughey discusses Chuuk cultural values--character, in particular--and their relationship to social behavior. The Chuuk classify and evaluate character according to three basic dimensions: bravery vs. cowardice, respectfulness vs. arrogance, and strong thought vs. weak thought. Bravery, respectfulness and strong thought are considered the ideal, although arrogance is tolerated in association with bravery. According to Caughey, these definitions of character 'embody the basic rules of conduct that are necessary for achieving and maintaining a desirable reputation (46).' Caughey shows how lending, giving, sharing and destroying valuables relates to character perception, self-esteem and being 'a person of consequence.' Valuables include land, food, goods and special knowledge. The various kinds of special knowledge are house building, canoe building, navigation, fighting, divination, curing, sorcery, strategy, and love magic.
Subjects
Incorporeal property
Ethics
Ingroup antagonisms
Lineages
culture
Chuuk
HRAF PubDate
1999
Region
Oceania
Sub Region
Micronesia
Document Type
Book
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Ian Skoggard ; 1997
Field Date
1968
Coverage Date
1968
Coverage Place
Chuuk State, Federated States of Micronesia
Notes
by John L. Caughey
Includes bibliographical references (p. 177-180)
LCSH
Trukese (Micronesian people)