BEHAVIORIST ETHICS IN A POLYNESIAN COMMUNITY: ANUTA, SOLOMON ISLANDS

Authors

Richard Feinberg, Kent State University
Gina Zavota, Kent State University

Abstract

In this essay, we explore the ethical system of Anuta, a remote Polynesian community in the Solomon Islands. We discuss the system’s underlying premises, the way in which the elements fit together into a coherent whole, and how the system might be characterized in terms familiar to Western philosophers and social scientists. In particular, Anutans draw a connection between happiness, as expressed in overt laughter, and moral virtue. Thus, we argue, Anutan ethics can reasonably be described as “utilitarian” and “behaviorist” and, on that basis, be compared with ethical systems found in other cultural and geographic regions.

Recommended Citation

Feinberg, Richard and Zavota, Gina (2023) "BEHAVIORIST ETHICS IN A POLYNESIAN COMMUNITY: ANUTA, SOLOMON ISLANDS," Pacific Studies Journal: Vol. 46: No. 2, Article 3.
Available at: https://digitalcollections.byuh.edu/pacific-studies-journal/vol46/iss2/3