Description of the South African Context

Abstract In this chapter, a description of the sample and the sites of research pertaining to the South African sample is provided. The chapter also details the unique structural and historical parameters that have shaped South African neighborhoods, the country, and indeed the people. Two sites in the country were sampled, and these are drawn upon in contrasting the very different lives of people who live in South Africa contemporarily. With this in place, some initial thoughts are advanced, detailing the relationship between structure, personhood, and norms.