There are many differences in the decision-making processes of the Maasai and Trobriand cultures. From sweet potatoes to circumcision, both cultures have different ways of marking the transition from childhood to adulthood. Although the Maasai and Trobriand Islanders are separated by almost all of the Indian Ocean, many similarities can be traced in the structure of the decisions that are made. Although the approach to making a decision is different, many of the issues that arise are the same. General decisions can be made about names, leaders, and family members of both cultures. The Trobriand Islands are located near the coast of eastern New Guinea. There are many uninhabited islands within the area and only four main islands are home to people. Due to the geographical location, the climate maintains high temperatures and high humidity. The most populous island, Kiriwina, is home to over 25,000 people (Peters-Golden 250). Kiriwina is home to more than sixty villages. Within each village the islanders live in thatched huts. Some housing structures use metal roofing. Politically, Australia retained administrative control until 1975, when Papua New Guinea gained independence. The largest buildings are located in the center of the village and are where the sweet potatoes are stored. Spiritually, the Trobrianders include magical practices in their daily lives. An example given in Peters-Golden's book Culture Sketches tells how the act of fishing sometimes requires the use of magic. When fishing along the calm waters of the lagoons found along the coast of the island, no magic is necessary. However, when in open waters, where storms and winds rage, magic is used to protect oneself. So when Trobriand Island......middle of paper......lage. An example of this occurred in the 1980s, when the losing team burned down the houses of the host village (Peters-Golden 258). The elders of the Maasai tribe, however, rely on the moon to make decisions. They determine whether it's time to attack by the color of the moon. When the moon looks red, it is time to attack the enemies of the tribe (Saitoti 22). However, when the moon is green, they do not attack. Another occasion when elders play a role in tribal decisions is when an individual in the kraal has a problem with the absolute leader of the kraal. The man who has a problem with the head of the kraal can approach the elders and ask for their support. Unlike the Trobrianders, the Maasai do not plot to eliminate the entire family tree, but instead gain the support of influential elders and then approach the person they believe is in the wrong.