article
'Munchuu-making' and disequilibrium distribution of knowledge in an Okinawan village
Minzokugaku-kenkyu • 51 (4) • Published In 1986 • Pages: 344-374
By: Oda Makoto.
Abstract
In this study, Oda examines the different kinds of knowledge involved in the formation of descent groups (MUNCHU) in northern Okinawa. He documents the change in village organization from a focus on house-lines where status is based on proximity to the village's founding household, to an emphasis on family-lines, where status is based on connections to outside aristocratic families. Genealogical knowledge is required for this process, however, it is not equally shared by everyone. In order to keep the house-lines going, many households in the past adopted heirs, whose genealogical connections were remote or forgotten over time. This creates a problem for establishing MUNCHU ties. The elite have a more complete knowledge of their genealogies than commoners, however, even elite claims have to be verified by the secret knowledge of shamans who understand sicknesses and calamities in terms of genealogical violations and prescribe cures to remedy them.
- HRAF PubDate
- 2000
- Region
- Asia
- Sub Region
- East Asia
- Document Type
- article
- Evaluation
- Creator Type
- Ethnologist
- Document Rating
- 4: Excellent Secondary Data
- 5: Excellent Primary Data
- Analyst
- Ian Skoggard ; 2000
- Field Date
- no date
- Coverage Date
- 1960s
- Coverage Place
- Shioya village, Ohgimi county, Okinawa prefecture, Japan
- Notes
- Oda Makoto
- Includes bibliographical references (p. 373-374)
- LCSH
- Ryukyuans