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McDonaldization, Islamic teachings, and funerary practices in Kuwait
1American University of The Middle East, Kuwait, Dasman. iqbalz@sympatico.ca
Omega
|July 14, 2011
Summary
Kuwait
Area of Science:
- Sociology
- Cultural Studies
- Religious Studies
Background:
- Traditional Islamic burial practices in Kuwait are being modernized.
- George Ritzer's concept of McDonaldization provides a framework for analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the transformation of Kuwaiti burial practices through the lens of McDonaldization.
- To examine the application of the McDonald's model to Islamic funerary services.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of Islamic burial teachings.
- Personal observations of funeral services in Kuwait.
- Random interviews with individuals involved in burial practices.
Main Results:
- Kuwaiti burial rituals have become more efficient, standardized, calculable, and controlled due to state bureaucracy.
- The McDonaldization model has been applied to cemetery management, grave excavation, funeral prayers, burial, and condolences.
- Associated irrationalities of this modernization are also considered.
Conclusions:
- While some individuals may be dissatisfied, there is no popular resistance to the McDonaldization of burial practices in Kuwait.
- The authoritarian and welfare nature of the Kuwaiti state may contribute to the lack of resistance.
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