Ritualism and identity formation in a traditional society: the case of Banyang tradition in South West Region of Cameroon

Bc. Samuel Akem Taku

Master's thesis

Abstract:

This thesis seeks to analyze how identity is created from ritual interactions by using Randall Collins’ main argument on interaction ritual theory. Collins (2004) recognized the importance to understand critically the dynamics and mechanisms of interactions that, albeit the microsociological nature, remains relevant to macrosociological understanding. He theorized the primacy of studying situational interactions first before the individual, for the individual tends to demand its own set of rules, which the interaction ritual theory precisely attempts to explain. By using the Ekpe society as a case study, this paper will provide a critical literature review of various sociological concepts regarding rituals and identity within tribal units and other forms of traditional society specifically anchored in the mechanisms of interaction rituals. Interaction ritual theory depends largely on the works of Randall Collins and Emile Durkheim. Borrowing various elements such as the concept of sacred objects and collective effervescence, interaction ritual results to shared emotions and solidarity that are caused by mutual focus of attention among participants. Some interpretations regarding the need for ritual is also discussed in this study. Looking at ritual as a mechanism to resolve social contradictions and the creation of identity in a tribal society, the rite of initiation or the rite of passage ritual will be studied as an empirical case study. The work will also identify the role or functions of ritual in a traditional society. Citing with Collins’ concept of interaction ritual theory and personal experience in Rite of Initiation in the Ekpe traditional society in Cameroon, the thesis concludes by affirming that interaction ritual ingrains individuals with a new identity in society.

Keywords

Ritual, Identity formation, Traditional society

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 16. 5. 2011

Thesis defence

• Date of defence: 6. 6. 2011
• Supervisor: doc. PhDr. Csaba Szaló, Ph.D.
• Reader: doc. Bernadette Nadya Jaworsky, Ph.D.

Masaryk University

Faculty of Social Studies

Master programme / field:
Sociology / Sociology (Eng.)