What is the problem in The Black Pearl?

The main conflict in the novel, The Black Pearl, revolves around Ramon's desire to learn how to dive for pearls, as opposed by his fathers insistence that he learn to run the family business...... not participate in the diving. Ramon's father obviously fears for his son's safety, but irregardless, he seems to be more worried about family status and appearances. Therefore, his son should not be seem to "get his hands dirty"....... participating in menial labor. Ramon, however, disobeys his father, and his actions eventually lead to the downfall of his family's business.