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... one attempt to introduce a programme not specifically
asked for by the community, namely recreation craft
in the evenings for younger men, was an unmitigated
disaster and thereby taught a valuable lesson about
community expectations, needs etc. (Bucknall, 1980:3).
Literacy programmes in the vernacular for adults were well attended,
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an indication that individuals interact with a world that is real to
them, namely the theorizing concerning the importance of the vernacular.
They exercise their autonomy in attending classes.
Individuals in western society withdraw mentally from situations
while being present physically. The marrngu are not socialized
into behaviour of this sort. Western courtesy doubtless involves
some degree of hypocrisy. The marmgu are not socialized in this
/
way; they do not feel obliged to pretend interest. They exercise
their autonomy by withdrawing.
The personal autonomy of young people is respected in that’
•identities’ are not imposed upon them. Adults watch for signs
*
of developing interest and expertise and responsibility.
A withdrawal from a particular field is not seen as a failure.
Life is a ’becoming’ and there is no sense of pressure of time within
which achievements should be accomplished, or of shame associated
÷
with failing to achieve. Shame may be associated with transgressions
against the Law, but this is not a shame associated with lack of
autonomy1, found to such a degree among detribalised Aborigines.
16.12 Delinquency: asymmetry between objective and subjective
reality
Berger states that "socialization brings about symmetry between
objective and subjective reality, objective and subjective identity”
(Berger, 1971:96).
1An expression constantly heard among marginal Aboriginal young
people in gaol is that they are ’too ’shamed’ to do a certain thing.