“Fear and Loathing” in Communities

Abstract

Much has been written regarding Aboriginal culture and the difficulties ‘Whites’ have faced trying to introduce ‘Western education systems, (and the difficulties Aborigines have had dealing with Whites). One facet that seems to have gained little attention is that of the White staff themselves as individuals and the influence that they have in either a successful or failing educational institution. This is quite separate from the issue of whether or not the person has good teaching or administration skills. There are other issues which are often far more relevant in their daily life. Ideally, communities should not have to rely upon White staff, but presently and for the foreseeable future, it is a necessity.