Social valuing for Ogasawara as a place and space among ethnic host

Theory-generating methodologies can be used to add to our knowledge of various research areas, particularly those where direct access to and the measurement of meaning is elusive. This study reports on how grounded theory was used to uncover social valuing for the natural and social environment of Ogasawara on the part of Obeikei or Ogasawarans of Western decent. The data point to strong social valuing for Ogasawara as a 'place' and 'space', particularly as related to the US Navy era (1945-1968). Core values that have emerged in this on-going study focus on strong nostalgic feelings for the past, the desire to preserve cultural heritage, and uncertainty about the future.