Aboriginal entrepreneurs in the market economy: an exploration of alternative Aboriginal development [Concordia University]

"This thesis analyzes the influence of Aboriginal traditional values on Aboriginal economic activities and explores the possibilities of an alternative development of Canadian Aboriginal society. It argues that alternative Aboriginal development is possible in a way that emphasizes various social relations. Arguing that the development of Aboriginal society should follow Western society's path, researchers have hardly discussed alternative tradition-based Aboriginal development until the 1990s.The newer discussion for alternative Aboriginal development with respect for their tradition is still in its infancy. In order to identify if and how Aboriginal traditions can be included in their economy and in their society's development, this study conducted interviews with Aboriginal individual entrepreneurs in Quebec and Ontario. This thesis identifies that traditional values such as collectivity, reciprocity, being ecological, non-competitiveness, and respect or concern for different generations influence their business in the form of facilitating formation of social behaviors including: contributions to a First Nation community; close and collective relationship building among workers; providing ecological services or products; modest marketing; and operation takes into consideration influence on elders and the youth. The relatively distinct business activities of Aboriginal entrepreneurs suggest that Aboriginal peoples are involved in the mainstream market economy but in a distinct and more social way. The interviewed Aboriginal entrepreneurs are maintaining social activities while managing their businesses in the market economy. Therefore, Aboriginal development that reflects their traditions is possible with an emphasis on social relations over economic relations."