The Death of the Big Men and the Rise of the Big Shots: Custom and Conflict in East New Britain (ASAO Studies in Pacific Anthropology, 3)

Embark on a compelling anthropological journey to the Pacific island of Matupit with Keir Martin's "The Death of the Big Men and the Rise of the Big Shots: Custom and Conflict in East New Britain." This groundbreaking study, part of the ASAO Studies in Pacific Anthropology series, delves into the complex social dynamics that unfolded after the devastating 1994 volcanic eruption. More than just a chronicle of disaster relief, Martin's work offers a nuanced exploration of how a displaced community navigated the challenges of rebuilding their lives in the face of post-colonial neoliberalism. Through meticulous ethnographic research, Martin unpacks the intricate web of exchanges that emerged as the people of Matupit sought to reconstruct their society. He challenges simplistic narratives of globalization's transformative power or the unwavering resilience of indigenous culture. Instead, he reveals a dynamic interplay between tradition and modernity, where new forms of social stratification arose from the very processes of recovery. The book meticulously shows how traditional social hierarchies were reshaped, giving rise to a new class of "Big Shots" who wielded influence in the reconstruction efforts. "The Death of the Big Men and the Rise of the Big Shots" goes beyond a localized account, offering profound insights into the broader dynamics of globalization in the Pacific and beyond. Martin's analysis sheds light on the moral ambiguities inherent in exchange relationships, particularly in the context of disaster relief and development projects. He invites readers to consider the ethical implications of interventions that, while intended to assist, can inadvertently exacerbate existing inequalities or create new ones. This thought-provoking book is essential reading for students and scholars in anthropology, sociology, gender studies, and development studies. It provides a rich and insightful case study of how communities grapple with the challenges of disaster, globalization, and social change. Keir Martin's insightful analysis offers a valuable contribution to our understanding of the complexities of post-disaster reconstruction and the evolving nature of sociality in a rapidly changing world. Explore the nuanced social fabric of Matupit and gain a deeper appreciation for the human capacity to adapt, negotiate, and remake social bonds in the face of adversity. This hardback edition, published by Berghahn Books, offers 272 pages of in-depth analysis and thought-provoking perspectives.