“These Are A Simple People”

“These are a simple people, milord. They live on hope.” Contemptuous remarks made by a character in the mini-seriesDune, referring to the aboriginal people, the Fremen.

The ease with which we, the socially advanced and societally more complex pass judgment has horrific consequences for aboriginal people around the world. It is a judgement made without Knowledge, awareness or understanding of that peoples’Social structure, social behaviour or the limits they place onThe same.

The immediate example for me is the Māori Population of New Zealand. Although I have had experience

With Māori persons and groups, I remain a student, hungry for more understanding. The primary observation might have validity“These are a simple people”; until one learns more of their language traditions and their culture. One might equally say, “We have much to learn from them.” After over 25 years of marriage to a Māori woman I say yes, we do. Here comes the challenging bit. [a] how to get over such snide remarks, and recognise each other as social beings; [b] to learn to communicate effectively and honestly; [c] progress as a combined, focused Partnership.

[a dirty word to some; refer to snide comments; refer, delusion]For if the other is a “simple people”, we for all technological advancement are also “simple people”. Our wants are numerous, our needs are few take away the restraints of the consumer society, what might our life be?

What might our life be?