Uyat and the Culture of Shame in Central Asia

This book explores the culture of shame in Central Asia and its impact on social and political interactions, highlighting the negative effects of patriarchal and hierarchical gender norms on women and queer bodies. It also examines how these norms are challenged by young generations and discusses the role of shame in Kazakhstani politics as a form of accountability.

Format: Hardback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 03 September 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate tapestry of the culture of shame in Central Asia, exploring its profound impact on the regulation of social and political interactions within the region. Contributors offer a multidisciplinary perspective, shedding light on the ways in which shame plays a central role in shaping the dynamics of society. Through their insightful contributions, the book demonstrates how the pervasive influence of patriarchal and hierarchical gender norms negatively impacts women and queer bodies.

In particular, the contributors address a range of critical issues, including the taboo surrounding sex education in Kazakhstani schools, the prevalence of heteronormativity and its detrimental consequences on queer individuals, and the practice of parents in Kyrgyzstan relinquishing their firstborn children to the husbands' parents for adoption. Moreover, the book reflects on the ways in which these norms are being challenged by the younger generations, heralding a shift towards greater inclusivity and acceptance.

Furthermore, the book takes a novel approach by examining the role of shame in Kazakhstani politics as a form of accountability in the absence of genuine political competition. By exploring the intersection of shame, power, and politics, the book offers a fresh perspective on local political dynamics, shedding light on the ways in which individuals and groups use shame as a tool to exert influence and maintain social order.

This book is of immense interest to scholars of Central Asia, gender theorists, and scholars of post-socialist societies alike. Its comprehensive analysis and insightful perspectives provide valuable insights into the complex interplay of culture, gender, and politics in the region, contributing to our understanding of the social and political landscapes of Central Asia.

Weight: 375g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811943270
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022