The Social Dynamic and the Cultural Existence of Tai Dam Food in Case of Phetchaburi Province

Abstract

The purposes of this research were ๒ aspects; ๑) to study the cultural dynamic that related to Tai Dam food, and ๒) to study the existence process of Tai Dam food in case of Phetchaburi Province. The research methods were used by holistic-integrated approach and historical approach. Data were collected by in-depth interview, group discussion, and set-up of community forum. The areas studied in this research are Khao Yoi District and Nong Ya Plong District at Phetchaburi Province. The research findings showed as follows; ๑) the cultural dynamic that related to Tai Dam food are from ๓ times. First, Tai Dam food was influenced from the food cultural of the south in China while Tai Dam people, who was the prisoner of war, moved to Thailand in Thonburi reign. Secondly, the impact of the new modern society, when government constructed the Phetchakasem Road and cut through Tai Dam community, and more higher education of Tai Dam people changed the way of life in Tai Dam food cultural as well. Moreover, the factory increase in Phetchaburi Province and irrigation system are more influence to community environment to change. There are affected to life style, career, and the pattern of Tai Dam food cultural. “Toh Laos” is the Tai Dam food service agent that provide the ritual food to Tai Dam people and make them convenient other than provide by themselves. ๒) The existence process of Tai Dam food are ๒ dimensions. The household dimension, the way of life in Tai Dam food is not different from the past and there are more integrate between Tai Dam tradition food and Thai style in this moment. The ritual food dimension, the way of food cultural in Tai Dam people was changed and followed in capitalism of modern society.