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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:The Changing Meaning of Small Arms in Nuer Society
Authors:Skedsmo, Arild
Danhier, KwongISNI
Luak, Hoth GorISNI
Year:2003
Periodical:African Security Review
Volume:12
Issue:4
Pages:57-67
Language:English
Geographic term:Sudan
Subjects:social change
Nuer
small arms
Military, Defense and Arms
Peoples of Africa (Ethnic Groups)
External link:https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10246029.2003.9627251
Abstract:The economic value, social status and symbolic meaning of small arms are particular and temporal in nature. This is demonstrated through a historical account of the dynamics of cultural change and adaptation in Nuer society (South Sudan). Specifically, the article shows how attitudes towards small arms shifted over time from a positive valuation of guns as prestigious objects, to ambivalence between the need for protection and the experience of increased local lawlessness and violence. More generally, it demonstrates how weapon-related activities can only be fully understood when seen against a specific cultural background. Even if the display, use and circulation of weapons appear to carry cross-cultural references, typically as expressions of power and masculine identity, the meaning is always primarily local. Therefore, strategies to reduce the destructive impact of small arms through demand-side programmes, based on voluntary participation, can only be carried out successfully if built on an in-depth understanding of a particular cultural context. Notes, ref., sum. [Journal abstract]
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