Dissertation Research: The Individualization of Land in American Samoa

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This research project will investigate the individualization of land in American Samoa, which is a consequence of social and economic changes following World War II. Specifically, the researcher will analyze the legal aspects of individual ownership in a society where communal land is protected by law, understand the process of individualization, the reaction of conservative individuals who call for a return to indigenous forms of land tenure, and the affects of changes on family organization. This project will contribute to our understanding of culture change by looking at a society and its traditional structures as it is transformed on becoming part of the world economic system. It will also contribute to our knowledge of the processes affecting land tenure and the attitudes and values which accompany change. This research will make a practical contribution as well as a theoretical contribution. Too little is known about land tenure and the social consequences of programs of agricultural and housing development. Since, the project will address world wide concerns of land alienation and access to food resources, it will provide information for policy development.