Fragile Conviction: Changing Ideological Landscapes In Urban Kyrgyzstan

In the heart of Central Asia, amidst the bustling streets of urban Kyrgyzstan, lies a captivating tapestry of ideological beliefs and values. Fragile Conviction, a thought-provoking book by anthropologist Assel Ibraimova, delves into this complex world, unveiling the intricate interplay of tradition, modernity, and the enduring legacy of Soviet rule.

Navigating a Labyrinth of Beliefs

Urban Kyrgyzstan presents a fascinating microcosm of ideological diversity. The legacy of Soviet communism continues to cast a long shadow, shaping the values and aspirations of many residents. Yet, side by side with these remnants of the past, new belief systems have emerged, ranging from fervent nationalism to globalized consumerism.

Fragile Conviction: Changing Ideological Landscapes in Urban Kyrgyzstan

by Hourly History

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1698 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	232 pages
Paperback	:	32 pages
Item Weight	:	3.52 ounces
Dimensions	:	8.5 x 0.08 x 11 inches

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Ibraimova's ethnographic research provides a nuanced understanding of how individuals navigate this labyrinth of beliefs. She traces the journeys of ordinary citizens as they reconcile inherited ideologies with the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing society.

The Fragility of Identity

In the face of ideological flux, the search for a stable sense of identity becomes paramount. Fragile Conviction explores how urban Kyrgyzstani grapple with the complexities of ethnic, religious, and national identities. These identities are constantly in flux, shaped by both internal and external forces.

Ibraimova argues that identity is not a fixed entity but rather a fluid and contested space. Individuals constantly negotiate their identities, drawing on a repertoire of cultural resources to construct a meaningful sense of self.

Aspirations and the Pursuit of Success

Amidst the ideological challenges, the book also sheds light on the aspirations and dreams that drive urban Kyrgyzstani. Drawing on extensive fieldwork, Ibraimova reveals the diverse ways in which people strive for success and fulfillment.

Some seek economic prosperity and material wealth, while others prioritize social status and recognition. Education remains a central pillar of aspiration, as individuals recognize the transformative power of knowledge.

The Power of Ritual and Tradition

Despite the pervasive influence of modernity, traditional rituals and customs remain deeply embedded in urban Kyrgyzstani society. Fragile Conviction delves into the significance of these traditions, exploring their role in fostering a sense of continuity and shared purpose.

From elaborate wedding ceremonies to communal festivals, rituals provide a space for collective expression and reinforce social bonds. Ibraimova argues that tradition is not simply a relic of the past but an active force in shaping present-day beliefs and practices.

Fragile Conviction is a compelling and insightful account of the evolving ideological landscape in urban Kyrgyzstan. Through its rich ethnography and nuanced analysis, the book offers a profound understanding of how individuals navigate the complexities of belief, identity, and aspiration in a rapidly changing society.

Assel Ibraimova's work illuminates the fragility of conviction, the fluidity of identity, and the enduring power of tradition. Fragile Conviction is a must-read for anyone seeking to comprehend the social transformations unfolding in the heart of Central Asia.

Fragile Conviction: Changing Ideological Landscapes in Urban Kyrgyzstan

by Hourly History

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1698 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	232 pages
Paperback	:	32 pages
Item Weight	:	3.52 ounces
Dimensions	:	8.5 x 0.08 x 11 inches

FREE