How Hidden Networks Preserve Suppressed Practices Across Cultures
Hidden networks are an integral part of many cultures around the world. They allow for the preservation of various traditions that would otherwise be lost due to the dominant cultural norms. These networks serve as a means of connecting individuals who share similar beliefs and values, and they provide a safe space for exploring practices that may not be accepted by mainstream society. In this article, I will explore how these hidden networks preserve suppressed practices across cultures through their unique language, rituals, and social structures.
Language
Language plays a significant role in maintaining and transmitting suppressed practices within hidden networks.
In certain parts of India, there is a tradition known as "kumari" where young girls are revered as goddesses and treated like royalty until they reach puberty. This practice has been suppressed by mainstream culture due to its association with child marriage and sexual abuse.
It continues to thrive within secretive communities where members speak in code to avoid detection. The network's language is filled with symbols and metaphors related to fertility, which helps them keep their traditions alive. Members use specific terminology and references when discussing their rituals and beliefs, making it difficult for outsiders to understand.
Rituals
Rituals also play an important role in keeping suppressed practices alive within hidden networks.
In some African cultures, there is a custom called "chuma." It involves women dancing together and rubbing their bodies against each other to achieve spiritual enlightenment. While chuma was once widely practiced throughout Africa, it has since been deemed immoral and illegal by many governments. Despite this, the practice still exists in remote areas where people have established secret societies to carry on the tradition. These societies conduct elaborate ceremonies that involve chanting, singing, and dancing in ways that can only be understood by those who have undergone initiation.
Social Structures
Social structures such as secret societies or age-based hierarchies also serve to preserve suppressed practices across cultures. In some parts of South America, there is a tradition known as "Madre Vieja" where older women take care of young girls to prepare them for adulthood. They teach the girls about traditional medicine, cooking, and other skills while engaging in sexual acts with them. This practice is considered taboo but continues to thrive among certain communities due to its emphasis on female empowerment. The network's social structure revolves around respect for elders and strict rules governing behavior within the group.
Hidden networks play a crucial role in preserving suppressed practices across cultures. By using language, rituals, and social structures, they create a safe space for individuals to explore traditions and beliefs outside of mainstream society. Without these networks, many important cultural customs would be lost forever.
How do hidden networks preserve suppressed practices across cultures?
Hidden networks play an important role in preserving repressed cultural traditions because they provide a safe space for individuals to connect with one another based on their shared values and beliefs. These connections can help ensure that cultural traditions are passed down from generation to generation, even if they are not widely accepted within society at large. Hidden networks can also serve as sources of support and encouragement for individuals who may feel marginalized or isolated due to their participation in these activities.