The meaning of political development in the north

Abstract

ABSTRACTPolitical development in the north (and elsewhere) often occurs in a context of confrontation and conflict between values of community and stability on one hand and economic growth and change on the other. Indigenous peoples of the north may not be able to resist strong tides of social and economic change—‘development’ toward forms of the dominant social, economic and political institutions—but they can substantially affect the terms of their integration into dominant societies. Alaska Natives seek both autonomy through tribal governments and access to the benefits of dominant institutions. Their ability to achieve and reconcile these purposes is a basic measure of their political development.