We are living in the 21st century, a century that is witnessing huge leaps forward in technological innovation, systemic complexity, as well as in societal and environmental challenges which...Show moreWe are living in the 21st century, a century that is witnessing huge leaps forward in technological innovation, systemic complexity, as well as in societal and environmental challenges which continuously confront our identities. Indigenous communities have been especially susceptible to such external pressures, arguably reinforcing their distinct vulnerability levels. Historical marginalization and disempowering processes have not rarely threatened the biological and cultural existence of indigenous groups, which includes ancient cultural forms of identification. In an attempt to unravel Yawanawá-specific intergroup dynamics in threat situations, the thesis at hand seeks to contribute to the study of indigenous survival strategies by employing an innovative approach. This approach draws on psycho-social theories (notably Collective Angst Theory) in order to better understand the responses of the indigenous Yawanawá group to realistic and symbolic challenges affecting biological and cultural group vitality.Show less
