RPG Forums

Go Back   RPG Forums > Role Playing Game Section > Morrow Project/ Project Phoenix Forum

 
 
Thread Tools Search this Thread Display Modes
Prev Previous Post   Next Post Next
  #1  
Old 02-09-2021, 02:27 PM
Matt W Matt W is offline
Registered User
 
Join Date: Sep 2009
Posts: 313
Default Skills that bring status in a Post-Apocalyptic society?

I was reading up on Melanesian society (for completely irrelevant reasons) and I can across this list of skills that were considered necessary for a leader in The Solomon Islands in the 1940's. A "bigman" or "headman" needed a certain personal charisma and other qualities:

"A man must be prepared to demonstrate that he possesses the kind of skills that inspire respect: magical powers, gardening prowess, mastery of oratorical style, perhaps bravery in war and feud"

It looks an odd list, but it does have a certain logic once you realise that "gardening prowess" means both "wealthy" and "good enough at agriculture to feed lots of people". That's really important for a culture that can't always get enough food.

Likewise, "oratorical style" means "persuade the community without resorting to force".

IMHO, this list of skills would be very appropriate for the leader of a low-tech village. Does anyone have anything to add? Or suggest the skills that might work for a larger community?
Reply With Quote
 


Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)
 
Thread Tools Search this Thread
Search this Thread:

Advanced Search
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off

Forum Jump


All times are GMT -6. The time now is 02:01 AM.


Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.6
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.