Differences Between Micronesian and Western Values

Abstract

One of the remarkable aspects of the dramatized radio feature, An Adventure Far From Home, is the willingness of the young Micronesian producers to engage in sociological generalizations. I found it simple enough to check the validity of these with a suitably wide range of informed people from Micronesia. (In the course of this study’s fieldwork, all points of cultural difference raised in the dramatized radio feature program An Adventure Far From Home were used as points of reference and checked with a cross section of Chuukese, Pohnpeian, Yapese, Kosraean, Marshallese, and Palauan interviewees, as well as with relevant ethnographic material. All points raised by the program-makers were regarded as valid by all Micronesian interviewees.) Micronesians might be reluctant to explain aspects of their culture, but I’ve noticed on most occasions that they’re quick to clear up mistakes or to verify the truth. So the investigator is spared the sort of soul-searching that’s typified by David Nevin’s apologetic recourse to a generalized account of aspects of Micronesian society.

This chapter first appeared in Understanding Micronesia: A cultural guide for researchers and visitors, published by Southbound Publishing, Penang (ISBN 978–983–9054–49–1). Springer has obtained the rights to re-publish the work in English language only.