A Story of Change and Continuity as Told Through the Generations of Hmong Villagers in North Thailand: A Brief Ethnography of Philing Village

Abstract

Hmong of North Thailand have experienced the crucible of change due to processes of modernity and globalisation, particularly in the last 50 years. Nevertheless, Hmong are a resilient and resourceful people. The people of Philing village have experienced paradigmatic change from when the village began 40 years ago. However much of customary practice, cultural identity and community connectivity remains. This village is no backwater though and many of the youth still return to the village to marry and "do fields" in their late teens. I seek to explore the social and economic structure of each generation of adults represented in the village, and so chart the course of change. Then I seek to describe something of the resilience and vibrancy I've found in this community. I discuss and analyse the social capital inherent in the community and the sense of continuity I have found in Philing Village.