Mind–Body & Social Science
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Cultural Rituals Around Hair: Symbolism Across Societies
Explore how hair carries deep cultural, spiritual, and political meaning worldwide.
Source: Social Science QuarterlyPublished on: April 25, 2025
Abstract in Plain English
Hair transcends biology — it’s a cultural text. Anthropologists from Social Science Quarterly (2025) cataloged how hair rituals across 14 global societies reflect identity, status, and resistance.
Key Findings
- In Sikhism and Rastafarianism, uncut hair symbolizes spiritual connection.
- In many African cultures, braiding patterns signify lineage and social status.
- Shaving the head in Buddhist and military traditions marks rebirth or discipline.
- Political protests in Iran and India have used hair-cutting as collective dissent.
Why It Matters
Understanding hair’s cultural dimensions deepens empathy toward those experiencing loss or change. Hair is not just self-expression — it’s belonging, belief, and sometimes, defiance.
Study Limitations
The review focused on a limited number of cultural groups.
Citation & Review Team
Full Citation
Mukherjee P. et al., Soc Sci Q, 2025.Review Team
Author: Student Editor
Fact-Checker: Dermatology Researcher
Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.