Department or Program
Environmental Studies
Abstract
In this thesis I aim to explain the evolution of Karen identity that has occurred over recent years due to influences from the central Thai government. Using Michel Foucault’s theory of governmentality and his ideas about government, population, and power, I will discuss how as Karen environmental interaction and agriculture changed, a transformation of Karen self-perception and cultural identity began to take place. Through an analysis of Thai policy and institutions I find that through non-coercive practices, the main means of Foucault’s governmentality, the Thai state has influenced a shift in Karen culture to become more aligned with Thai culture.
Level of Access
Restricted: Campus/Bates Community Only Access
First Advisor
Sonja Pieck
Date of Graduation
Spring 5-2014
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts
Recommended Citation
McCormack, Benjamin James, "Shifting Identities: Analyzing the Effect of Non-Coercive Power on Karen Identity" (2014). Standard Theses. 52.
https://scarab.bates.edu/envr_studies_theses/52
Number of Pages
62
Components of Thesis
1 pdf file
Restricted
Available to Bates community via local IP address or Bates login.