Spiritual Life and Folk Beliefs in Vietnam in the Modern Era: An Anthropological Approach

Abstract

In the context of modernization and globalization, the spiritual life and folk beliefs in Vietnam have undergone profound transformations. This paper analyzes the changes in folk beliefs in response to the challenges and opportunities brought by modernization, while also assessing the role of social, economic, and cultural factors in the preservation and transformation of traditional values. The research results indicate that despite being influenced by modern factors, folk beliefs continue to hold an important role in the lives of the people. However, rituals and belief practices have had to adapt to fit the new social context. Media and education play a crucial role in disseminating and preserving folk beliefs. The development of modern communication tools, particularly social media, has introduced new ways to access and practice religious rituals, while also posing new challenges for maintaining traditional values. Although education has great potential for preserving and promoting belief values, it has not been adequately emphasized in the national education system, leading to the risk of these values being forgotten. Cultural policies and state management also have a significant impact on the transformation of folk beliefs. The government has implemented various policies to preserve and develop traditional cultural values, but the implementation of these policies often faces difficulties, especially in a rapidly changing society. The differences between regions and communities in practicing beliefs have posed challenges for comprehensively preserving these values. This study demonstrates that folk beliefs in Vietnam have retained their core values and resilience despite the changes brought by modernization. To preserve and promote these values, a close combination of tradition and modernity, with active participation from the community, the state, and researchers, is essential. Only with coordinated efforts and a clear strategy can folk beliefs continue to develop and play an important role in the spiritual life of the Vietnamese people.