This essay will outline the process of class formation within Papua New Guinea (PNG) and show that, although its developments are unique to the region, they are in line with the general capitalist trend of class development. This will be done by outlining a general definition of class in relation to Marxist ideology and then applying this viewpoint to the historical development of PNG in relation to capitalism and class formation. It will show the major influence that the middle class had in the promotion of class identity, particularly normalising class differences. The essay ends with a reflection on middle class values in PNG and how they influence, but are nevertheless, part of the adaptive nature of capitalism. It is concluded that from a Marxist perspective, understanding class formation in PNG is tantamount to understanding class theory in general.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Marxist Theory of Class
3. Historical Context of Class in PNG
4. Class Formation and Middle Class Dominance
5. Cultural Manifestations of Class
6. Conclusion
Research Objectives and Themes
This essay explores the process of class formation in Papua New Guinea, arguing that while local developments are unique, they fundamentally align with broader capitalist trends of class stratification and the adaptive nature of capitalist ideology.
- Application of Marxist theory to the historical development of PNG.
- The specific role of the middle class in shaping class identity.
- The intersection of cultural values and economic inequality.
- The normalization of class differences through institutional propaganda.
- The relationship between egalitarian traditions and modern capitalist structures.
Excerpts from the Book
The middle class formed a view, in keeping with the general facade of capitalist equality, that anyone was able to acquire wealth and a comfortable way of living, providing they adopted the right values and work ethic (Gewertz & Errington, 1998, p.346). Those who were poor or less fortunate therefore only had themselves to blame. The working class became a category that was to be ‘looked down upon’, for they had not applied themselves to the same vigorous way of life as the middle class. Social, ethnic, political forces were not accounted for in this mentality.
Religious ideas, however, were adopted as alongside this capitalist viewpoint stood the dominant Christian ideology. Though brief, the period of colonialisation whereby Christian ethics were put forth towards the locals held itself strongly. The distinction between being a good Christian was the same as being a good capitalist. The same judgements on people applied equally, whether they be for spiritual or economic ends (Robbins, 2004, pp.40-1).
An example of the fusion between church and business can be seen in the formation of the Sepik Women in Trade (SWIT) organisation (Gewertz & Errington, 1998, pp. 345-361).This organisation was aimed at helping develop business opportunities for middle class women living around the PGN city of Wewak. SWIT was an openly Christian based project that incorporated representatives from the major churches to enlist members. It was one of the many elitist organisations set up by, and for, the middle class.
Summary of Chapters
1. Introduction: Outlines the scope of the essay, defining the focus on class formation in PNG through a Marxist lens while acknowledging the unique regional context.
2. Marxist Theory of Class: Establishes the foundational definitions of the proletariat, bourgeoisie, and petit bourgeoisie as the framework for analyzing economic inequality.
3. Historical Context of Class in PNG: Examines the transition from primitive communism and egalitarian structures to the introduction of colonial capitalism.
4. Class Formation and Middle Class Dominance: Analyzes how the middle class emerged as a catalyst for local capitalism and redirected social tensions.
5. Cultural Manifestations of Class: Discusses how institutions like the Rotary Club and religious organizations helped normalize middle-class ideology and social status.
6. Conclusion: Summarizes how class in PNG reflects the adaptive nature of capitalism, regardless of local cultural differences.
Keywords
Papua New Guinea, Marxism, Class formation, Capitalism, Middle class, Proletariat, Bourgeoisie, Egalitarianism, Colonialism, Class identity, Economic inequality, Cultural capital, Social status, Modernization, SWIT.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary subject of this academic essay?
The essay examines the development and formation of social classes within Papua New Guinea, specifically analyzing how these developments intersect with global capitalist trends.
What are the central thematic fields covered?
The central themes include the application of Marxist theory in non-Western contexts, the historical evolution of PNG's economy, and the construction of middle-class identity.
What is the main objective or research question?
The main objective is to demonstrate that class formation in PNG, despite its unique cultural roots, ultimately reinforces the capitalist system through the influence of a dominant middle class.
Which scientific method is utilized?
The author utilizes a qualitative, theoretical analysis, primarily applying Marxist structuralist concepts to ethnographic and historical data.
What is discussed in the main body of the work?
The main body covers the transition from primitive communism, the impact of colonialism, the role of local institutions in promoting middle-class values, and the perception of social inequality.
Which keywords best characterize this work?
The work is best characterized by terms such as Class Formation, Marxism, Capitalism, Papua New Guinea, and Social Stratification.
How does the "middle class" in PNG differ from traditional Marxist definitions?
While fitting the definition of owning small-scale means of production, the PNG middle class heavily utilizes cultural status and communal values to distinguish itself from the working class.
What role did organizations like SWIT play in class development?
These organizations served as vehicles to promote capitalist ethics, redirect working-class tension, and formalize the middle-class "party line" through selective membership and religious narratives.
- Quote paper
- Lee Hooper (Author), 2011, An analysis of class development in Papua New Guinea, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/233132
