Abstract:
The substace of this work is taken from a dissertation, the fieldwork for which was accomplished from 2000 to 2002. In the beginning the work included nine case studies, and when winnowed has resulted in three representing locations that provide specific characteristics.
The names of the villages in the book are nor their actual names, nor are the names of informants, photographs of the activities, or current conditions; the format of the results of the questionnaire has also been abbreviated. At the the same time, care has been taken to assure the accuracy of the materials.
The study has involved many people. While I cannot list each one of them by name, I would like to extend my deepest appreciation to each of these individuals for the
roles they played in this work.