Haunting the State: Rumours,Spectral Apparitions and the Longing for Buddhist Charisma in Laos |
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Authors: | Patrice Ladwig |
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Institution: | Max Planck Institute for Social Anthropology, |
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Abstract: | Buddhist ascetic monks and hermits that move largely outside of the institutional structures of the monastic order (sangha) have a long history in mainland Southeast Asia. In Lao Buddhism these figures seem to have largely disappeared, but due to their charismatic qualities they still occupy a crucial position in the social imaginary. This article explores rumours and narratives about the existence of ascetic monks and hermits in contemporary Laos. I argue that rumours about, and narratives of, spectral apparitions of these figures express a longing for Buddhist charisma that is partially rooted in Laos’ revolutionary past, and in recent social and economic changes. As Buddhist charisma can point to alternative, personalised sources of power, I argue that rumours and spectral apparitions can be interpreted as haunting, and therefore afflicting and challenging the current politics of religion of the Lao state. |
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Keywords: | Laos Buddhism charisma ghosts state haunting |
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