Morality Discourses in Tourism: A Critical Look Through a Case Study of the Ring-Wearing Kayan
Keywords:
Morality, Ethical travel, Kayan, Ethnic identity, Harmful cultural practicesAbstract
Morality discourses have become an omnipresent language to describe, interpret and act in the tourism industry. However, these imposed moral judgements about what ‘proper’ tourism should be, can ironically reproduce the perceived immoral practice and consequently perpetuate power imbalances. This article will use a case-study of the Kayan whose women wear heavy brass rings around their neck, and are involved in the tourism industry in Thailand. The dominant moral discourse of being passive victims of their cultural practice waiting to be gazed at, will thereby be unpacked. By giving a voice to the Kayan and having a thorough look at the context, the complexity of their lives will be revealed. It will become clear that in their particular, sometimes even restraining situation, many Kayan are actually strategically using their ethnic identity to negotiate their positions to gain access to certain resources or resist more powerful forces.
Downloads
Published
How to Cite
Issue
Section
License
The opinions and ideas expressed in all submissions published in Thammasat Review are solely that of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect that of the editors or the editorial board.
The copyright of all articles including all written content and illustrations belong to Thammasat Review. Any individuals or organisation wishing to publish, reproduce and distribute a particular manuscript must seek permission from the journal first.