Rastafarianism

Paper Summary:

This paper provides an overview of the central aspects of the Rastafarian Movement and attempts to examine the links between the various cultural, social and philosophical aspects of the Rastafarian Movement. In particular, the paper describes the historical, cultural and social aspects that have influenced the rise of this movement. The paper emphasizes the influence of 'Ethiopianism' on Rastafarianism.

Table of Contents:
Introduction
Methodology
The Rastafarian faith and Ethiopianism
General Characteristics And Beliefs
Social And Philosophical Aspects
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"There are a number of estimates of the extent of the Rastafarian movement in the world. One general estimate is that there are approximately between 3,000 and 5,000 Rastafarians in the United States. A problem with the estimate of Rastafarianism is that many individuals who dress or adopt the outer appearance of Rastafarianism are in many cases not true Rastafarians. (Rastafarianism) This is partly due to the popularity that this movement has acquired through its views and music since the 1960's. Worldwide, the estimate of those following the Rastafarian faith is approximately 1,000,000 people. (Rastafarianism) In terms of further significant demographic facts, it is also clear the majority of the members are male. "Traditionally, women have played a very minor role in Rastafarianism," (Rastafarianism) and "Women's role in the Rastafarian movement is at best a subordinate one..." (Barrett, 1997, p.78)"

Sample of Sources Used:

• Barrett, L. E. (1997). The Rastafarians. Boston: Beacon Press. Retrieved November 7, 2006, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=91110344
• Branch R. Rastafarianism. Retrieved November 7, 2006, from http://www.watchman.org/profile/rastapro.htm
• Cashmore, E. (2003). Encyclopedia of Race and Ethnic Studies. New York: Routledge. Retrieved November 9, 2006, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=107717605
• Cashmore, E. (1996). Dictionary of Race and Ethnic Relations. New York: Routledge. Retrieved November 9, 2006, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=103088579
• Chevannes, B. (1998). Believing Identity: Pentecostalism and the Mediation of Jamaican Ethnicity and Gender in England. Journal of the Royal Anthropological Institute, 4(4), 824+. Retrieved November 7, 2006, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=5001406183

More papers on Rastafarianism:

• Essay # 59174 : "Rastafarianism"
• Analytical Essay # 143110 : "Rastafarianism In Jamaica"
• Analytical Essay # 138870 : "Rastafarianism"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: