Aesthetics of Asoke Ascetics: Materializing Morality in the Santi Asoke Communities of Thailand

Abstract

The Asoke group emerged in the mid-1970s, and since then has developed into a definitive and unusual feature within the Thai religious landscape. The group consists of female and male monastics and lay members who have become known for their political involvement and distinct interpretation of Buddhist teachings. This thesis sets out to examine how the shaping of senses in Asoke—through their specific interpretation of the Dhamma—has formed a coherent aesthetic profile and material culture unique to them. Through looking at the non- verbal messages of the appearance of members, artwork, and lived space—which is based on fieldwork—the interplay between the beliefs, material culture, and aesthetics within Asoke is better comprehended.