SOCIAL, DYNAMICS AND CULTURE, BAN WEN BUEK, TAMBON KHONG CHIAM, KHONG CHIAM, DISTRICT UBON RATCHATANI PROVINCE

Abstract

The Bru people are a minority with their own way of life and have a distinctive cultural dynamics. Currently, they are adjusted according to the constantly changing external context and maintain as well as sustain their identity. The writer searched the history of the Bru community, analyzed the causes of change and presented guidelines for development and maintaining the Bru identity. The research began with documentary studies, conducting community survey of community location, house-features, and social and economic conditions. Data were analyzed by assessing the value of data gathered from participatory observations of daily activities such as cooking in ceremonies. Additionally, some data were collected using semi in-depth interviews of government officials, shop operators, knowledgeable persons on local wisdom and members of village committee. The study found that the Bru community has a distinctive cultural identity especially the tradition of Fire-Boat Floating, cooking in various ceremonies, and different ways of  life. The knowledge gained from this study can be used  to conserve, develop, restore and maintain its prominence, and finally become a sustainable tourism destination. Such  innovation can possibly lure outsiders to come and learn about the way of life of the Bru people in the future. Keywords: Social dynamics, cultural way of life, The Bru people and community innovation