The geographic focus is on those Asian regions where the religions of South Asian origin have a significant presence. This includes studies of other religious traditions and the relationships between local and trans-regional traditions. Comparative approaches are particularly encouraged.

No single definition of asceticism could possibly encapsulate all practices which could be considered under this rubric, but most involve regular and repeated abstinence from any one, or combination of the following: food, sleep, sexual relations, social contact and economic activity. These may be practiced to various degrees; in extreme cases this could extend to self-mortification. Ascetic practices are also often incorporated within traditions of practice known variously as contemplation, meditation, mysticism or magic.

Papers approach the topic of asceticism:

(i) as a form of practice, involving self-denial and world renunciation, which may be associated with power (in the widest sense);

(ii) as a discourse about (rather than by) and a dialogue between different traditions;

(iii) as politically influential concepts that play a role in the formation of identity, at global, national and local levels.

It is our intention to have the proceedings published. Please check the website for the latest developments.

Keynote Lecture

The keynote lecture by Professor Peter van der Veer will be open to anyone without prior reservation, including those who have not registered for the conference.

Conference attendance

Attendance is limited to no more than sixty participants, including the speakers.

For further information contact:

Rupert Cox (Far East )
34 Mulberry House
Victoria Park Square
London E2 9PQ
tel +44-(0)208-983 5848 (home)
106207.2000@compuserve.com

Peter Flügel (South Asia)
Dept of the Study of Religions,
School of Oriental and African Studies,
Thornhaugh Street
Russell Square
London WC1H 0XG
tel +44-(0)20-883 07283 (home)
pf@cix.co.uk

Gustaaf Houtman (South East Asia)
Editor, Anthropology Today
Royal Anthropological Institute
50 Fitzroy Street
London W1T 5BT
telephone +44-20-73870455 (work)

Conference web-page:
http://www.therai.org.uk/anthcal/asianasceticism.html

Conference details:
http://www.therai.org.uk/anthcal/conferencedetails.html

Links to asceticism on the Web:
http://www.therai.org.uk/anthcal/asianasceticismlinks.html

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Asceticism and Power in the Asian Context

22-24 February 2001

The Royal Asiatic Society, London

The School of Oriental and African Studies

Asceticism and Power
in the Asian Context