THE PLACE OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN ROTUMAN SOCIETY

Authors

Jan Rensel, University of Hawai‘i
Alan Howard, University of Hawai‘i

Abstract

In Rotuma, as in many other small, face-to-face societies, persons with disabilities are treated not as members of categories based on their conditions, but as individuals having whole constellations of characteristics and interpersonal histories. Their roles are not scripted on the basis of disabilities, but patterned by a number of key cultural principles that guide all relationships, including notions of immanent justice for wrongdoing, expectations of generosity and reciprocity, personal autonomy, and concern for family honor. Case studies and analyses of exchange interactions are presented to illustrate these points.

Recommended Citation

Rensel, Jan and Howard, Alan (1997) "THE PLACE OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN ROTUMAN SOCIETY," Pacific Studies Journal: Vol. 20: No. 3, Article 5.
Available at: https://digitalcollections.byuh.edu/pacific-studies-journal/vol20/iss3/5