This thesis explores the nature and impacts of social change in a remote rural, island area within the Scottish Gaidhealtachd. It seeks to contribute to an in depth understanding of how the social and economic system of crofting, as well as the Gaelic culture which has related closely to it in such areas, has evolved over the past 40 years. The case study area of South Uig in the Isle of Lewis has low population numbers and offers an opportunity to study these processes of change in microcosm. Where appropriate, inferences can be drawn from the study which may contribute to the formulation of policy for similarly remote rural places and the fragile cultures which are integral to them.