Ruben Anton
Oct 3
According to Chowin 1970, In Melanesia the political leadership system is gerontocracy.Explain why and justify your answers with an example?
Religion and personal development
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Oct 3
In Melanesian societies, gerontocracy is the predominant political leadership system because of the high value placed on wisdom, experience, and age. Elders are seen as the repository of knowledge and tradition, and their advanced age is believed to give them a deeper understanding of societal issues and conflicts. As a result, they are often chosen to lead and make decisions for the community.
One example of gerontocracy in Melanesia is the Kpelle people of Liberia. In Kpelle society, elders hold significant power and influence, and decisions are often made by a council of elders known as the "palaver hut." This council is made up of the oldest and most respected members of the community, who are seen as the ultimate authority on matters of governance and conflict resolution.
Overall, gerontocracy in Melanesia reflects the cultural values of respect for elders and the belief that age brings wisdom and insight. This system ensures that leadership is based on experience and knowledge, rather than on factors such as wealth or charisma.
One example of gerontocracy in Melanesia is the Kpelle people of Liberia. In Kpelle society, elders hold significant power and influence, and decisions are often made by a council of elders known as the "palaver hut." This council is made up of the oldest and most respected members of the community, who are seen as the ultimate authority on matters of governance and conflict resolution.
Overall, gerontocracy in Melanesia reflects the cultural values of respect for elders and the belief that age brings wisdom and insight. This system ensures that leadership is based on experience and knowledge, rather than on factors such as wealth or charisma.
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Google Gemini AI
Oct 3
Gerontocracy in Melanesia
According to Chowin (1970), in Melanesia, the political leadership system is largely characterized by gerontocracy, a form of government where power and leadership are held by elders or senior members of the community. This system is prevalent due to several reasons:
Reasons for Gerontocracy in Melanesia:
1. Traditional Values and Respect for Elders: Melanesian societies place great importance on tradition and respect for the elderly. Elders are seen as repositories of wisdom, experience, and knowledge, which are vital for guiding the community.
2. Power and Influence: Senior members of the community often accumulate wealth and influence over time. They may hold influential positions within kin groups or religious institutions, giving them a significant voice in decision-making.
3. Leadership Experience and Skills: Over the years, elders have gained valuable experience in managing community affairs, resolving conflicts, and negotiating with other groups. This experience makes them well-suited for leadership roles.
Example:
In the Trobriand Islands of Papua New Guinea, the traditional leadership system involves a group of elder men known as the "Malasi." These elders form a council that governs the community. They make decisions on matters such as land use, resource allocation, and conflict resolution. The Malasi are highly respected and their authority is derived from their age, wisdom, and experience in community affairs.
Justification:
The Malasi system demonstrates the principles of gerontocracy in Melanesia. The elders' authority stems from their age and accumulated knowledge. They are entrusted with the task of guiding the community based on their experience and understanding of tradition. By respecting the wisdom of elders, the Trobriand Islands ensure continuity of leadership and maintain social stability.
According to Chowin (1970), in Melanesia, the political leadership system is largely characterized by gerontocracy, a form of government where power and leadership are held by elders or senior members of the community. This system is prevalent due to several reasons:
Reasons for Gerontocracy in Melanesia:
1. Traditional Values and Respect for Elders: Melanesian societies place great importance on tradition and respect for the elderly. Elders are seen as repositories of wisdom, experience, and knowledge, which are vital for guiding the community.
2. Power and Influence: Senior members of the community often accumulate wealth and influence over time. They may hold influential positions within kin groups or religious institutions, giving them a significant voice in decision-making.
3. Leadership Experience and Skills: Over the years, elders have gained valuable experience in managing community affairs, resolving conflicts, and negotiating with other groups. This experience makes them well-suited for leadership roles.
Example:
In the Trobriand Islands of Papua New Guinea, the traditional leadership system involves a group of elder men known as the "Malasi." These elders form a council that governs the community. They make decisions on matters such as land use, resource allocation, and conflict resolution. The Malasi are highly respected and their authority is derived from their age, wisdom, and experience in community affairs.
Justification:
The Malasi system demonstrates the principles of gerontocracy in Melanesia. The elders' authority stems from their age and accumulated knowledge. They are entrusted with the task of guiding the community based on their experience and understanding of tradition. By respecting the wisdom of elders, the Trobriand Islands ensure continuity of leadership and maintain social stability.
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