Understanding the challenges of religious switching: the dynamics and interplay of social and cultural capital
Date
2011
Authors
Radford, D.
Editors
Threadgold, S.
Kirby, E.
Germov, J.
Kirby, E.
Germov, J.
Advisors
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Conference paper
Citation
TASA 2011 Conference Proceedings: Local Lives/Global Networks, 2011 / Threadgold, S., Kirby, E., Germov, J. (ed./s), pp.1-16
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2011 TASA Conference: Local Lives/Global Networks (28 Nov 2011 - 1 Dec 2011 : Newcastle, Australia)
Abstract
Kyrgyz conversion to Protestant Christianity in Kyrgyzstan, Central Asia, has proven itself to be a multi-faceted phenomenon (Radford 2011). Challenging normative identity constructions regarding identity Kyrgyz Christians have entered a process not simply of changing religious affiliation but of the reconstruction of ethnic identity. This paper addresses key themes that help understand some of the social processes involved. The question of the reconstruction of Kyrgyz identity through conversion is discussed under three sections. The first considers how Kyrgyz Christians challenge the accusations of betrayal and the ‘deviant’ labels ascribed to some of their community. The second examines what happens when ethnic boundaries are challenged, especially as they relate to identity, and addresses the factors which influence the possibility of change. The third describes how Kyrgyz Christians responded to these challenges through a process of identity reconstruction utilising and seeking to maintain continuity in relation to social, cultural and religious capital.
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Copyright 2011 The Author