article

The history of Samoan sexual conduct and the Mead-Freeman controversy

American anthropologist98 (3) • Published In 1996 • Pages: 555-567

By: Shankman, Paul.

Abstract
This article re-examines the accuracy of empirical data used by Margaret Mead in her portrayal of adolescent Samoan girls as sexually permissive, and Derek Freeman who found them to be rather restrictive. The article discusses the most important historical data and cultural institutions, notably the Taupou system (institutionalized valuation of virginity) used in both arguments. The article concludes that Mead's reconstruction is more in accord with available data, despite some errors in facts and interpretation.
Subjects
Premarital sex relations
Social personality
Ethos
Sexuality
Extramarital sex relations
Missions
Gender status
Status, role, and prestige
History
Sociocultural trends
culture
Samoans
HRAF PubDate
2009
Region
Oceania
Sub Region
Polynesia
Document Type
article
Evaluation
Creator Type
Anthropologist
Document Rating
4: Excellent Secondary Data
Analyst
Teferi Abate Adem; 2007
Field Date
no date
Coverage Date
1900-1990
Coverage Place
Samoa
Notes
Paul Shankman
Includes bibliographical references (p. 565-567)
LCCN
17015424
LCSH
Samoans