Nucleation in Papua New Guinea Cultures (International Museum of Cultures Publication, 23

Gives a collection of studies of Papua New Guinea cultures, each isolating one key concept that is believed to define the whole of that culture.
Include concepts about

• the 'big man' in the 'father-of-the-village' role
• the pig, which highlights important values in Melanesian culture
• shell money, used among people of New Britain, and
• mami 'yam'.

Table of Contents

Preface

• “Pigs Are Our Hearts”: A Functional Study of the Pig in Melanesia
  Daniel D. Rath
• Of Pigs, Men, and Life: A Glimpse at Wiru Society
  Michael Fullingim
• Duke of York Shell Money: A Mediator of Relationships
  Dean and Dianne Moore
• Mami Reveals Dynamic Kwanga Social Structure
  Takashi Manabe
• The Interrelationship of Taboo and Kinship as the Cohesive Agent of Saniyo-Hiyowe Society
  Ronald K. Lewis
• Feasts: Celebration or Obligation?
  Judy Kennedy
• The Intermediary and Social Distance in Western Torres Strait
  Rodney J. Kennedy