The Changing World of Bali: Religion, Society and Tourism
Product DescriptionThe glossy guide book image of Bali is of a timeless paradise whose people are devoutly religious and artistically gifted. However, a hundred years of colonialism, war and Indonesian independence, and tourism have produced both modernizing changes and created an image of Bali as ‘traditional’. Incorporating up-to-date ethnographic field work the book investigates the myriad of ways in which the Balinese has responded to the influx of outside influence. T. . . More >>
To many Australians, Bali is a tourist paradise. Rarely do visitors go beyond this surface appearance. Howe offers a more nuanced appreciation. He begins with the now infamous Kuta bombing of October 2002, which killed over 200 people. About half of these were Balinese, and the other half tourists. He uses this to lead into an analysis of the tourism industry. Where there has been suggestions that it is somehow cheapening traditional Balinese culture. From this, he gives a recap of the island’s history and its society. Bali was never free of outside influences. From Muslims to the Dutch colonialists and the Japanese invaders.
We see how Balinese Hinduism differs subtly from the mainstream Indian Hinduism. Reflecting the rich cultural traditions and history specific to Bali. Also, Howe describes how new religious beliefs are emerging. And of the complex social hierarchies within Bali. There is an intersection of ordering due to Hinduism, wealth and kinship.
Especially if you have visited Bali as a tourist, the book gives a far deeper view of that society.
Rating: 4 / 5