Symbolic Violence and Ceremonial Peace (original) (raw)

The paper explores the concept of symbolic violence within the context of ceremonial exchanges among the Yangoru Boiken and Abelam peoples of Papua New Guinea. It argues that these exchanges, often framed competitively, serve as a means to manage conflicts of interest and symbolize strength within communities that lack centralized forms of social control. By presenting ceremonial displays and exchanges as substitutes for actual violent conflict, these societies can maintain cooperative actions and social cohesion.