The paradox of "indigenous modernity" : a case study of the construction of identity among the ‡Khomani San

Thoma, Nora

The paradox of "indigenous modernity" : a case study of the construction of identity among the ‡Khomani San

Master Thesis

2009

Publisher

University of Cape Town

Department

African Studies

Faculty

Faculty of Humanities

Abstract

This minor dissertation examines the complex question of the issues relating to the identity of the ‡Khomani San of the Southern Kalahari in South Africa. Through qualitative fieldwork and secondary research, the dissertation illustrates that the ‡Khomani San have an identity, even though it is partially constructed, multifaceted and heterogeneous. This can be understood better through the paradox of "indigenous modernity" which combines traditions and modernity in one. The ‡Khomani San thus set an example of bridging the gap of dichotomies. In building this argument, the thesis first positions the ‡Khomani San as indigenous people in a global, African and South African context. This discussion highlights that one aspect of ‡Khomani San identity is based on their status as indigenous people. Secondly, the history of the ‡Khomani San is delineated, detailing the influence of colonialism and apartheid on ‡Khomani San resources, culture and identity. Here, the important connection between land and ‡Khomani San identity is emphasised. Thirdly, the dissertation explores the contemporary situation of the ‡Khomani San through the narratives of interviewed individuals. These ‡Khomani San voices speak to the ways in which recent developments concerning their land, traditional knowledge and livelihood have influenced the construction of their identity. Within these recent developments, the impact of external forces such as NGOs and government on the ‡Khomani San are also described. Through these interview narratives, binaried representations of the ‡Khomani San identity as either traditionalist or modernist are challenged. Rather, the ‡Khomani San identity is (re)interpreted as a hybrid of both 'traditional' and 'modern' values, which creates them into 'indigenous modernities'.

Description

Includes bibliographical references (leaves 80-87).

Keywords

African Studies

Reference:

Collections

Masters

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