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BODY AND IDENTITY BLOGS


Japan's Geisha: Grace, Performance, and Identity
From a cultural anthropology perspective, geisha are not simply entertainers, they are trained cultural practitioners who embody performance, refinement, and social artistry within highly structured traditions. Rather than viewing geisha as a symbol, anthropology asks a different question: what kind of social world produces and sustains this role? Field Note 1: The Body as an Instrument of Cultural Expression A geisha’s presence is built through years of disciplined training


The Hijab in Saudi Arabia: Culture, Faith, and Identity
From a cultural anthropological perspective, the practice of wearing the hijab in Saudi Arabia extends beyond a religious symbol. It is a deeply embedded cultural and social practice that reflects intersections of faith, identity, and collective values. The hijab operates within a broader moral framework shaped by Islamic teachings, gender norms, and national identity, functioning as both a personal and public expression of belonging. Anthropologically, the hijab can be under


Beauty, Body, and Belonging: Cosmetic Culture in South Korea
Through a cultural anthropological lens, cosmetic procedures in South Korea are not merely about appearance. They are about identity, social belonging, and cultural values. In a society where appearance can influence education, career, and relationships, beauty often becomes a form of social capital. These procedures reflect deeper cultural meanings: the pursuit of harmony, self-discipline, and success. Influenced by Confucian ideals of self-cultivation and modern global beau
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