Knots: Ethnography of the Moral in Culture and Social Thought

Knots are used to represent moral relationships, and this book explores their metaphoric value in and for moral order. Granular ethnography depicts how knots are used to express unity, political authority, and the cosmos in Japan, China, Europe, South America, and Pacific Island societies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 28 April 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Knots have long been recognized as symbols of moral relationships, but this book offers a fresh perspective on this commonly accepted notion. It explores the metaphorical significance of knots in and for moral order, examining their deployment in various cultures worldwide. Through granular ethnography, the book showcases how knots are used to express unity, political authority, the cosmos, and social thought. Chapters focusing on Japan, China, Europe, South America, and several Pacific Island societies provide vivid illustrations of how knots are incorporated into daily and ritual practices, shaping cultural identities and beliefs. This volume will appeal to anthropologists, scholars of metaphor and symbolism, material culture, and technology, offering valuable insights into the multifaceted roles of knots in human societies.

Introduction:
Knots have long been recognized as symbols of moral relationships, connecting individuals, communities, and societies through a web of interconnectedness. However, their metaphorical value has often been taken for granted, overshadowed by their practical uses. In this book, we aim to explore the rich metaphorical significance of knots, examining their role in expressing unity, political authority, the cosmos, and social thought.

Chapter 1: Japan:
In Japan, knots have a long history of symbolic meaning. They are often associated with the concept of "makura," which refers to the art of making wooden blocks with interlocking patterns. Makura blocks are used in traditional Japanese woodworking to create intricate designs, and they are also used in martial arts to represent strength and discipline. Knots in Japanese culture are also used to express unity and harmony, particularly in the practice of knot-tying, known as "kumihimo." Kumihimo is a traditional Japanese art form that involves weaving cords together to create intricate patterns and designs. Knots are used in kumihimo to represent the interconnectedness of all things and to create a sense of balance and harmony.

Chapter 2: China:
In China, knots have a rich cultural history dating back thousands of years. They are often associated with the concept of "yin and yang," which represents the balance between opposing forces in the universe. Knots in Chinese culture are used to express this balance and to symbolize the unity of all things. They are also used in traditional Chinese medicine to represent the flow of energy and to promote healing. Knots in Chinese culture are also used to express political authority and authority, particularly in the practice of knot-tying, known as "zhuangzi." Zhuangzi is a collection of philosophical writings that were written by the Chinese philosopher Zhuangzi in the third century BCE. Knots are used in zhuangzi to represent the interconnectedness of all things and to promote a sense of harmony and balance.

Chapter 3: Europe:
In Europe, knots have a long history of symbolic meaning, particularly in the Christian tradition. They are often associated with the concept of the "sacred knot," which represents the unity of God and humanity. Knots in European culture are also used to express political authority and authority, particularly in the practice of knot-tying, known as "marriage." Marriage is a sacred institution in many European cultures, and knots are used to symbolize the commitment and loyalty between two people. Knots in European culture are also used to express social thought and philosophy, particularly in the works of the French philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Rousseau argued that human beings are naturally social creatures and that social bonds are essential for human flourishing. Knots are used in Rousseau's works to represent the interconnectedness of all things and to promote a sense of community and belonging.

Chapter 4: South America:
In South America, knots have a rich cultural history, particularly in the Andean region. They are often associated with the concept of "q'ero," which refers to the Andean indigenous people who live in the highlands of Peru and Bolivia. Q'ero people use knots to represent their connection to the earth, the cosmos, and each other. Knots are used in q'ero culture to express political authority and authority, particularly in the practice of knot-tying, known as "q'ero knotting." Q'ero knotting is a traditional Andean art form that involves weaving cords together to create intricate patterns and designs. Knots are used in q'ero knotting to represent the interconnectedness of all things and to promote a sense of balance and harmony.

Chapter 5: Pacific Island Societies:
In several Pacific Island societies, knots have a rich cultural history, particularly in the Polynesian and Micronesian regions. They are often associated with the concept of "māori," which refers to the indigenous people of New Zealand and Hawaii. Māori people use knots to represent their connection to the earth, the cosmos, and each other. Knots are used in māori culture to express political authority and authority, particularly in the practice of knot-tying, known as "māori weaving." Māori weaving is a traditional Māori art form that involves weaving cords together to create intricate patterns and designs. Knots are used in māori weaving to represent the interconnectedness of all things and to promote a sense of balance and harmony.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, knots have a rich metaphorical significance that extends beyond their practical uses. They are symbols of moral relationships, unity, political authority, the cosmos, and social thought, and they play a vital role in shaping cultural identities and beliefs. Through granular ethnography, this book has explored the deployment of knots in various cultures worldwide, highlighting their metaphorical value and their role in promoting a sense of harmony and balance. Knots are a testament to the human capacity for creativity and innovation, and they continue to inspire and intrigue us today.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367463663