essay

Microtechnology in rural Buganda

technology and social change • Prospect Heights, Ill. • Published In 1987 • Pages: 244-267

By: Robbins, Michael C., Kilbride, Philip L..

Abstract

This is an investigation of the impact of microtechnologies on the social structure and culture of rural South Buganda. The specific microtechnologies examined are bicycles, radios, flashlights, lanterns, and watches. Besides the prestige value of owning the above items, the authors also found that i) the increased mobility afforded by bicycles enhanced economic activities and increased social interaction and communication among distant kin; ii) as a source of much new information, radios broadened social horizons and helped to relieve boredom; iii) watches facilitated the scheduling, regulating and coordinating of individual and group behavior; iv) lanterns and flashlights extended the day for social intercourse. The authors also looked at hair straightening which they argue has became a symbol of women's identification with modern culture.

HRAF PubDate

1998

Region

Africa

Sub Region

Eastern Africa

Document Type

essay

Evaluation

Creator Type

Ethnologist

Document Rating

5: Excellent Primary Data

Analyst

Ian Skoggard ; 1997

Field Date

1967, 1969

Coverage Date

1967-1969

Coverage Place

Uganda

Notes

Michael C. Robbins and Philip L. Kilbride

Includes bibliographical references

LCCN

87115027

LCSH

Ganda (African people)