Public Administration ETDs

Publication Date

8-1974

Abstract

The federal administrators of contemporary Indian affairs are placed in a unique position. They are dealing with a political, cultural and social entity which has been dominated by a society which is structured from a separate political, economic and legal value system. This has often contributed to misunderstandings between the Indian nation and United States government.

The current federal Indian policies which the administrators are attempting to implement are finally compatible with the goals of the Native Americans. However, the misunderstandings which exist, partially as a result of the differing value systems, are placing the administrators in a frustrating and difficult position as well as alienating many of the Indian citizens. Different interpretations of the policy of “self-determination,” and suspicion of motives based on years of enmity, are placing a strain on government-Indian relations, resulting in stagnation of federal programs and an increase in discontent among the Indians, particularly the young.

This thesis is an analysis of the discontent among the Indians as a result of the current federal Indian policies, and the federal position on this situation. The hypothesis of this thesis is that successful communication between the government and the Indians would make it clear to the two “sides” that they hold similar goals for the Indian people. This would result in an easing of the tension, and would permit the administrators to gain more cooperation in the implementation of federal policies and programs.

Degree Name

Public Administration

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

School of Public Administration

First Committee Member (Chair)

Donald Smithburg

Second Committee Member

Bruce Rigsby

Third Committee Member

Gerald Boyle

Language

English

Document Type

Thesis

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