Majuro—As we enter the New Year, I feel compelled to share a vision—one that may seem ambitious yet hopeful for the future of Western civilization.
After four decades in the Pacific, its way of life has become inseparable from my identity. Thirty-six years ago, I married my Bikinian wife, Regina, and together we raised five children who have now blessed us with seven grandchildren.
My years on the remote outer islands of the Marshalls and extensive travels across the Pacific immersed me in its vibrant cultures, shaping how I see the world and deepening my appreciation for the values that bind our island communities together.
I reflect on a recent conversation with an old high school acquaintance who reached out to me after we reconnected on Facebook. Upon learning that I had spent the majority of my life on a small Pacific island, he asked, “What is it like to live in an uncivilized country?” I responded by saying, I live in a nation that has elected a woman president twice, provides universal health care, where owning a gun has always been illegal, and is on the verge of implementing universal basic income.
Furthermore, I shared with him that, as a country and a region, we mounted one of the most effective responses to the Covid-19 pandemic globally. Few nations could claim such a combination of accomplishments. So, what does it truly mean to be “civilized”?
Recent events in Western societies make me wonder how island traditions could inspire transformative change. Our region, rich in cultural diversity, emphasizes community, respect and harmony with nature—values often lost in the West. Communal living, respect for elders and environmental stewardship are cornerstones of Pacific life that address issues like isolation, ageism and ecological crises. Common, everyday practices like storytelling, generosity and rituals foster understanding, connection, and meaning, offering valuable guidance for a world that appears to be in a constant and desperate search for unity and balance.
One of the most remarkable traits of our culture is its emphasis on communal living. Across our islands, the well-being of the group often takes precedence over individual needs. Customs like the Marshallese mour in aeloñ kein (the way of life on our islands) and the Fijian vanua (the land and its people) embody shared responsibility and mutual care.
In the West, where individualism frequently reigns supreme, adopting a more collective approach to life could address issues of isolation and loneliness. Practices such as shared meals, community projects and especially multigenerational living create solidarity that counters the alienation felt by many.
Admiration for elders, a cornerstone of Oceanic cultures, could enrich Western societies. Elders are revered not only for their age but for the wisdom they bring, serving as guides and repositories of knowledge. Their opinions carry weight, and they are often central in decision-making. In many Western societies, however, aging is viewed through a lens of decline, and older generations are often marginalized. Honoring elders, as in Pacific practices, could counter ageism while benefiting from their insight. Intergenerational learning and collaboration could bridge the divide between youth and elders, fostering mutual respect.
The Pacific offers a model for living in harmony with the natural world. For centuries, Pacific peoples have nurtured a deep connection to the environment, viewing it as an integral part of life. Practices such as sustainable fishing, traditional agriculture, and resource management systems like Hawaii’s kapu reflect ecological balance. At a time when the Western world faces environmental crises, adopting Pacific principles of stewardship could be transformative. Philosophies such as the Māori kaitiakitanga (guardianship) remind us that the planet's health and humanity are undeniably intertwined.
Storytelling is a cornerstone of Pacific islander heritage, with profound potential to resonate far beyond our shores. Through dialogue, chants and dances, oral histories preserve history, impart lessons, and encourage connections. Since my Peace Corps days, I have devoted much of my life to sharing the stories of the Bikinian nuclear victims with the world. This work is more than an act of remembrance—it ensures that this vital chapter of history is neither forgotten nor silenced.
Storytelling, a cornerstone of Pacific life, promotes empathy and preserves culture. In contrast, digital communication in the West often replaces face-to-face interaction, diminishing opportunities for personal connection. Reviving storytelling traditions could help Western societies reconnect on a human level. Creating spaces for sharing personal narratives and community histories could nurture empathy, strengthen bonds, and preserve heritage.
Cultural pride, expressed through traditional music, dance, language, and ceremonies, is a hallmark of island life. These expressions are acts of cultural affirmation, strengthening identity and bonds. In the Western world, where cultural homogenization often dominates, encouraging individuals to embrace their roots could foster a greater sense of belonging. Acknowledging diverse cultural expressions enriches society, promoting inclusivity and mutual appreciation.
Generosity and hospitality are deeply rooted in Pacific customs. The act of giving—whether food, time, or resources—is not just about sharing; it nurtures relationships and shows care. Decades ago, during my Peace Corps training, we learned that if a Marshallese person offers you food, you are obligated to accept it. I still remember the warmth of acceptance when I first lived on the outer islands of the Marshalls. Over time, I realized that on these islands, where nearly everyone is connected by blood, people treat others—even strangers—with the same kindness they show family.
This ethos of generosity contrasts with the often transactional nature of interactions in many Western societies. By embracing a more inclusive approach, Western cultures could cultivate environments where trust and goodwill thrive. Simple gestures like sharing meals or helping neighbors could build stronger, more cohesive communities.
Ceremonies and rituals in Pacific cultures offer insights for Western societies. They mark life events and transitions, creating opportunities for reflection, gratitude and bonding. Whether through feasts, dances, or spiritual observances, these rituals provide structure and meaning. In the West, where life often moves relentlessly, traditional rituals could offer moments of pause and recollection. From celebrating milestones to observing seasonal changes, rituals can bring communities together and add depth to life.
Pacific spirituality offers a holistic approach to well-being. Concepts that celebrate spiritual energy and balance underscore the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. This perspective contrasts with compartmentalized approaches to wellness in the West. Integrating spirituality into daily life could help address mental and emotional health challenges in a more comprehensive manner.
In the face of mounting societal challenges within our modern Pacific communities—challenges compounded by the pervasive influence of Western culture through the internet—there remains a reservoir of wisdom in Pacific Islander traditions that the Western world could greatly benefit from. Customs such as prioritizing community, honoring elders, and living in harmony with nature are not mere remnants of the past but enduring practices with profound relevance in today’s world. By embracing and thoughtfully integrating these values, societies could foster greater harmony, sustainability, and genuine connection.
A lifetime of island living has shown me that the Pacific way—rooted in balance and collective well-being—offers guidance for a world seeking unity and meaning.
Jack Niedenthal is the former secretary of Health Services for the Marshall Islands, where he has lived and worked for 43 years. He is the author of “For the Good of Mankind, An Oral History of the People of Bikini,” and president of Microwave Films, which has produced six award-winning feature films in the Marshallese language. Send feedback to jackniedenthal@gmail.com
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