essay

On the continuing relevance of E. R. Leach's Political systems of Highland Burma to Kachin studies

social dynamics in the highlands of southeast asia: reconsidering political systems of highland burma by e.r. leach18 • Published In 2007 • Pages: 31-66

By: Maran, La Raw.

Abstract
This document, by indigenous Kachin professional anthropologist, discusses the continuing relevance of E. R. Leach's book Political Systems of Highland Burma to Kachin studies. It shows that the book had serious weaknesses and misunderstandings which Kachin scholars tried to correct through publications over the years. The most important of these weaknesses include Leach's conception of the Kachin as passive subjects of history, and inadequate translation of key political terms mostly because of lack of empirical data on the local context and varied meanings people used them.
Subjects
Reviews and critiques
Cultural identity and pride
Form and rules of government
History
Towns
Revolution
Political movements
External relations
Warfare
Social relationships and groups
Publishing
Inter-community relations
Administrative agencies
Status, role, and prestige
Territorial hierarchy
Classes
Mode of marriage
Kin relationships
Lineages
Cultural participation
Ingroup antagonisms
Political parties
Slavery
culture
Kachin
HRAF PubDate
2012
Region
Asia
Sub Region
Southeast Asia
Document Type
essay
Evaluation
Creator Type
Anthropologist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Teferi Abate Adem; 2011
Field Date
no date
Coverage Date
1888-2007
Coverage Place
Kachin State, Burma
Notes
Maran La Raw
For bibliographical references see document 34:Robinne and Sadan
LCCN
2007298875
LCSH
Kachin (Asian people)