Commodification of buddhism in contemporary burma

Abstract

Buddhism provides a powerful force in the lives of large numbers of people in Burma. The military junta ruling Burma has recognized and attempted to appropriate Buddhism as a means of legitimating its authority. This regime has consistently promoted the notion of national unity and identity in which strong links with a Buddhist Burmese heritage have been forged. This desire for Burma to become more fully integrated into the global economy has seen the encouragement of foreign investment and the promotion of the country as a destination. A strong relationship has been established between Buddhism and tourism, and this link has been appropriated by the regime in seeking to achieve its political and economic aspirations.