Beyond Rebirth Materiality and Recycling in Thai Amulets

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Published: Dec 6, 2024
Keywords:
Buddhism and Environmentalism Consumerism Material Culture Recycled Plastic Thai Amulets

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John Johnston
University of Arizona
Chaiyaporn Phayakhrut
Thammasat University

Abstract

The materials used to create Thai amulets are significant and often symbolic, affecting their perceived efficacy. Recently, modern materials like recycled plastic and glass have gained popularity, reflecting societal concerns such as environmental sustainability. These innovative amulets offer a critique of consumerism in Thai amulet culture, forging connections between Buddhism and environmentalism. Recycled plastic amulets created by Qualy Design & Dots Design Studio exemplify how materiality conveys Buddhist concepts. Despite their modern composition, these amulets are still ritually activated by monks, illustrating the evolving relationship between Buddhist material culture and environmental consciousness.

Article Details

How to Cite
Johnston, . . J., & Phayakhrut, C. (2024). Beyond Rebirth: Materiality and Recycling in Thai Amulets. The Journal of the Siam Society, 112(2), 119–132. Retrieved from https://so06.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/pub_jss/article/view/279292
Issue
Vol. 112 No. 2 (2024): The Amulet Culture of Thailand
Section
Special Edition (Guest Edited)
Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.

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