Tuvshinzaya Amarzaya
Berea College
Project
Evolution of Cultural and Individual Identity Through Martial Arts
China, Japan, Brazil, France
Historically, learning physical self-defense was a necessity in daily life, but in the modern days, practicing martial arts has become a choice. So as with any choice, martial arts became something that people self-identify with. Modern martial artists seek out a style that resonates with their values and personal philosophies. However, martial arts themselves are not static; Shaolin Kung Fu, Ninjutsu, Capoeira, and Parkour are all undergoing major sociocultural changes, creating generational gaps within the martial artists. I will explore how these changes affect martial artists’ sense of self through conversing with and practicing side by side with the new generation and learning from the previous generation.