Na sala vakavanua, na sala vakailavo : the Fijian way of life, the money way of life
Date
1991
Authors
Thompson, Douglas Kim
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Abstract
The title of this study --Na sala vakavanua, na sala vakailavo-- means the Fijian way of life, the money way of life. The objective of the thesis is to obtain an understanding of Island Fijian socioeconomic conditions. It takes the approach that the Island Fijian socioeconomic system consists of two sides --reciprocity and commodity-- and focuses on the interplay between these sides. With reference
to direct observations and field based materials from various parts of Fiji, the thesis examines recent changes in the processes of socioeconomic life in Fiji. It is observed that Island Fijians are using commodities and money to fulfill reciprocity requirements, converting commodities and money into gifts, using the reciprocity side for commodity production.