Jineteros choices and actions create an alternative moral framework to that proposed by the Cuban government. These definitions of need pose a potential, political threat to the Cuban government. The need for survival challenges the government because it cannot provide basic necessities for its citizens. The need to have fun is a greater challenge because jineteros are taking on practices that toss aside the state s argument for individual sacrifice for the collective good. An increasing number of Havana youth are becoming jineteros .
Young people admire and even envy the jineteros success.
One young woman told me that she did not choose a boyfriend based on his looks, but his clothes or gold chains. If he dressed well, was good-looking, could buy her things, and take her out, she would be envied by her peers. But sometimes I feel superior because I am happy that I can acquire some things that other Cubans cannot. Such individualism goes against the values the government wants to instill, and it is a threat to the government s future. Jineteros are crucial to understanding the changes taking place in Cuba.