Religion and Social Organization in Central Polynesia

Originally published in 1937, this presents a detailed account of religious and mythical structures in Central Polynesia.

Robert W. Williamson (Author), Ralph Piddington (Edited by)

9781107625693, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 14 November 2013

374 pages
24.4 x 17 x 2 cm, 0.6 kg

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.

Foreword
Preface
Bibliography and abbreviations
Part I. Gods and Worship: 1. The creation and the gods
2. Major Polynesian deities
3. Island gods
4. The worship of the gods
5. Taboo
6. Temples and burial places
7. Sacred objects
Part II. The Place of Religion in the Cultures of Central Polynesia: 8. The study of primitive religion
9. Religion and magic in the society islands
10. Religious aspects of social organization in the society islands
11. The sanctity of chieftanship
12. Religion and economics
13. Religion and law
14. The place of religion in culture
Index.

Subject Areas: Social & cultural anthropology, ethnography [JHMC]