SOCIAL UNREST IN AN ABORIGINAL COMMUNITY

Social unrest among Aboriginals of western Australian deserts, who are now congregated in settlements, is discussed with particular reference to fighting and alcoholism. While recent administrative changes are seen as desirable in the long term, over the short term they appear to increase unrest by bringing out a conflict between the old, traditional, ways and the new. How this happens is discussed in some detail and tentative suggestions aimed at minimizing it are made.