The body as a symbol

Core idea

• The body is a symbolic system that is used to represent society and order

Scheper-Hughes & Lock (1987) → The social body (2)

• The body has a representational use as a metaphor for society

• Common ideas within anthropology that a polluted body = a polluted community

Turner (1980)

• Skin is a boundary → Where nature becomes culture

Kayapo → Cleanliness

• Clean body represents social integration

• Dirt represents danger and disorder

Kayapo → Hair

• Long hair = social vitality

• Short hair = reduced social engagement

Kayapo → Control of sexuality

• Penis Sheath physically prevents erection and symbolises self control

• Male sexual energy is no longer wild/natural but is being controlled for social purposes

Key takeaway

• The body encodes social meaning and is a language through which society is expressed