Cultural Worldviews of Ethnic Rice Names in Phitsanulok

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the cultural worldviews reflected in the Ethic rice names in Phitsanulok province, as documented by the Department of Agriculture in the publication "Thai ethic rice varieties" (2000). The study employs an anthropological linguistic framework to investigate 146 rice varieties categorized into three semantic fields: characteristics, human or body parts, and places. Utilizing the framework of linguistic relativity, the research methodology involves fieldwork through participant observation with a minimal level of involvement. The results of the study reveal the cultural worldviews comprising 11 elements: the traditional agricultural worldview, local wisdom, ways of life, ancient language, natural and physical environment, beliefs, social values, subsistence economy, family and kinship systems, cultural customs and traditions, and governance systems.