For the purpose of this discussion, the dimensions of "power distance and individualism versus collectivism are useful concepts. The idea of power distance' refers to the acceptance (or otherwise) of unequal power distribution in a society (Hofstede 2001). Societies at the higher end of the scale accept the existence of uneven power distribution, whilst those at the opposite end of the spectrum do not believe that there is uneven power distribution within their own society. Individualism refers to societies where individuals value independence over being a member of a community. On the contrary, societies that value collectivism culturally prefer to work together as a community in harmony. Samoa is on the higher side of power distance. Samoans traditionally believed that their chiefs are chosen by God and therefore they have the right to rule and to make decisions. This belief is instrumental to the Samoans respect for their chiefs and therefore of the council of chiefs as the ultimate authority in the village setting. The elders or senior members of society and church ministers are similarly respected: elders for their contribution to society and their institutional knowledge, and ministers as representatives of God.Collectivism is also a trademark of Samoan cultural beliefs. Its origin is in the family and its practice spreads to the village level and beyond. A family in the Samoan context is largely understood in the form of the extended family rather than the immediate family. In this setting, other values that are strongly linked to collectivism like sharing, hospitality, respect, love, support and loyalty amongst others are practiced in one form or another. For instance, it is a norm in the Samoan culture for one family to borrow cooking ingredients from another without compensation.