Religion and Social Organization in Central Polynesia

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Cambridge University Press, Nov 14, 2013 - Social Science - 374 pages
Robert Wood Williamson (1856-1932) was a British solicitor and anthropologist who worked extensively in New Guinea and Polynesia. Originally published in 1937, this book was produced in edited form following an investigation of posthumous manuscripts arranged by Williamson's executors in 1935. The text presents a detailed account of religious and mythical structures in Central Polynesia and their relationship with the social organization of indigenous cultures. A detailed bibliography and textual notes are also included. This book will be of value to anyone with an interest in the Central Polynesian islands and the historical development of anthropology.
 

Contents

Major Polynesian Deities
37
Sacred Objects
165
THE PLACE OF RELIGION IN THE CULTURES
187
the Society Islands
242
The Sanctity of Chieftainship
277
Religion and Economics
293
Index
337
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