Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Book Reading #31 - Coming of Age in Samoa

Reference:
Coming of Age in Samoa
Margaret Mead
1928 Harper Perennial

Summary:
Samoan children live relatively unsheltered lives.  Practically no care is taken to shielded them from gore and sexuality.  As they age, sexuality takes an a role of increasing importance in their lives.  In general, the only times when sexual contact is frowned upon is when it occurs in public. Homosexual experiences are not uncommon, and are only of notw when someone is incapable of feeling attraction to the opposite sex.  In addition fidelity is consiered to be a short-lived stage, typically lasting only days or weeks.
Discussion:
Interesting chapter, as I thought that a smaller society woudl have more restrictions in place than a bit one.  Then again, when everyone knows each other and knows the rules, it seems that enforcement of laws and customs is a simple thing.

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