Aspects of change in Western Samoa 1962-1974

Abstract

This thesis examines a methodological problem in handling questions of social change. The data base used is a collection of records about Western Samoa in the period 1962-74, the first years of Independence. From this data base various studies are made, varying in focus between economic, geographic, demographic and anthropological subjects. Eight such studies form the basis of Part I. Part II attempts a synthesis of these diverse studies, leading on to an extended discussion of a previously described phenomenon "status dissonance". The case material used for this is derived from the history of the government organizations in the period. The methodological study is an analysis of the extent to which the presentation of the particular studies described above, gives an overall synthesis. After arguing in Chapter 1 against the use of elaborated computer models, I present an approach which relies more on the use of macro and micro studies, primarily by the application of simple statistical techniques. Having attempted these approaches I am forced to conclude that an overall synthesis does not occur, but that there are certain benefits to the approach. In particular, whilst failing to satisfy the traditional thesis requirements, the method of analysis and presentation of the data could be used by middle range public servants to brief specialists dealing with specific issues in the question of social change or economic development.