Hmong infrapolitics: A view from Vietnam

Author(s):

Michaud, Jean

Format:

Journal article

Citation:

Ethnic And Racial Studies, Volume 35, Issue 11 (2012). pp. 1853-1873.

Language:

English

Abstract:

Drawing upon notions of indigenization of modernity, agency and resistance in the context of an egalitarian society – the Hmong in northern Vietnam – I explore whether agency that is directed at diverting modernization is automatically intentional and patent, whether under certain circumstances it becomes resistance, and whether it is necessarily a project. I suggest the Hmong in Vietnam use infrapolitics while being tactically selective about modernity. I note that agency and the power to act appear and evolve in context and must be studied in relation to the specific circumstances that have formed the acting subjects. My argument relates to Sahlins’ proposition that ‘Local societies everywhere have attempted to organise the irresistible forces of Western World system by something even more inclusive – their own system of the world, their own culture.’ © 2012 Taylor & Francis.

ISSN:

01419870 (ISSN)

DOI:

10.1080/01419870.2011.615411

Identifier:

HmongStudies2129