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Punks, Monks, and Politics: The Story of an Unlikely Alliance

Evan Simmons

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Published in Punks Monks And Politics: Authenticity In Thailand Indonesia And Malaysia

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In the early 1980s, as Thatcher's Britain was gripped by economic recession and social unrest, two unlikely groups found themselves drawn together: punks and monks.

Punks, Monks and Politics: Authenticity in Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia

by Marco Ferrarese

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2417 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	304 pages
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On the surface, these two groups seemed to have little in common. Punks were known for their rebelliousness, their anti-establishment stance, and their DIY ethic. Monks, on the other hand, were seen as traditional, conservative, and otherworldly.

But as this book reveals, there were surprising connections between these two seemingly disparate groups. Both punks and monks were outsiders, who felt alienated from mainstream society. Both groups were also drawn to community and self-sufficiency. And both groups shared a deep commitment to social justice.

The story of this unlikely alliance is told through interviews with key figures from both the punk and monastic communities. These interviews reveal the shared values and motivations that brought these two groups together. They also show how this alliance had a real impact on both the punk and monastic communities, and on British society as a whole.

Punks, Monks, and Politics is a fascinating and inspiring story of how two very different groups can come together to create something truly unique and powerful.

The DIY Ethic and Monasticism

One of the most striking connections between punks and monks is their shared commitment to the DIY ethic. Punks were known for their do-it-yourself approach to music, fashion, and politics. They rejected the mainstream and created their own culture, on their own terms.

Monks also have a long tradition of self-sufficiency. Monasteries were often isolated from the outside world, and monks had to learn to provide for all of their own needs. This included growing their own food, building their own shelter, and making their own clothing.

The DIY ethic of punks and monks is a reflection of their shared commitment to independence and self-reliance. Both groups believe that they can create a better world by taking matters into their own hands.

Community and Self-Sufficiency

Another important connection between punks and monks is their shared emphasis on community and self-sufficiency. Punks were known for their strong sense of community. They created their own squats, where they lived and worked together. They also organized their own concerts, festivals, and political actions.

Monks also live in communities, where they share a common life and work together to support one another. Monasteries are often self-sufficient, and monks grow their own food, build their own shelter, and make their own clothing.

The emphasis on community and self-sufficiency is a reflection of the shared values of punks and monks. Both groups believe that it is important to create a supportive community where people can help each other and work together to create a better world.

Social Justice

Finally, punks and monks share a deep commitment to social justice. Punks were known for their anti-establishment stance and their support for the underdog. They were active in anti-war protests, anti-racist campaigns, and other social justice movements.

Monks also have a long history of social justice work. Many monasteries have been involved in providing food, shelter, and other support to the poor and needy. Monks have also been active in peacemaking efforts and other social justice initiatives.

The commitment to social justice is a reflection of the shared values of punks and monks. Both groups believe that it is important to fight for a more just and equitable world.

Punks, Monks, and Politics is a fascinating and inspiring story of how two very different groups can come together to create something truly unique and powerful. This book is a must-read for anyone who is interested in punk culture, monasticism, or social justice.

Punks, Monks and Politics: Authenticity in Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia

by Marco Ferrarese

5 out of 5