“ตุ๊กตาลูกเทพ”: กระบวนการเชื่อมโยงเครื่องรางของขลังไทยสู่สังคมเวียดนาม

Reborn Baby Dolls: An association process of Thai amulet into Vietnam society

Abstract

Abstract

          The objective of this research paper is to study an association process of Reborn Baby Dolls into Vietnam society.  By using qualitative research methodology consists of (1) literature review and (2) fieldwork collecting data, using participatory observation and informal interviews as tools.  In addition, also use Bruno Latour's concept of “association” as an analysis framework.

          This research found that Reborn Baby Dolls has been prevalent in Thai society since 2015. However, it is a "Kumanthong" (one kind of Thai amulet) in Vietnamese’s opinion or known as "Kumanthong white magic".  And another that has "muon san phi", called "Kumanthong black magic”.  There are many "actants" in the process of invention Reborn Baby Dolls in which consisting of 1. Doll manufacturing companies 2. Dressmakers and hairstylist 3. Magic Professional 4. Montras 5. Soul 6. Yantra 7. Takut and 8. “muon san phi”.  However, "actant" that has an important as an “actor” is a Reborn Baby Dolls. The association process of Reborn Baby Dolls into the Vietnam society is caused by "actant" consists of trader, translator, Facebook, and customer.  However, Facebook has become an "actor" in the association process, because it helps traders and customers rapidly and widely communicate.

Keywords:  Reborn Baby Dolls, association process, Vietnam society