The oil shocks of the 1970's have revealed two important features of this commodity: I) that all countries use energy to achieve economic and social goals and 2) national stability and autonomy are closely linked to the security of its supplies. The South Pacific region has greatly experienced these effects in its pursuit of development, due to its increasing and nearly complete dependence on imported petroleum products. This is compounded by the situation of high expectations for a quality of life similar to the more developed nations of the Pacific Rim. Therefore the role of energy in these economies must be addressed before it is too late. / Thesis / Candidate in Philosophy