The Analysis and Comparison of the Identity of the Ban Tham Community, Dok Khamtai District, and Sri Thoi Community, Mae Chai District, Phayao Province Within the Framework of Semiotics
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Abstract
The study of community identity in Phayao Province focuses on investigating and analyzing the identities in Ban Tham, Dok Khamtai District, and Sri Thoi, Mae Chai District, Phayao Province. Field data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and SWOT analysis with a purposively selected sample of 40 participants. Then, the data was analyzed under the framework of identity concepts and semiotic theory. Findings reveal that the Sri Thoi community’s primary identity revolves around the "lychee," which is significant in daily life and cultural rituals such as Blessing Ceremonies, Life Extension Rites (Seup Chata), and Lychee Ordination Ceremonies. These rituals underline the cultural and agricultural importance of lychee cultivation as an integral part of the community's way of life. In contrast, Ban Tham community’s defining identity is represented by the "Rock Crab," an ancient freshwater species with historical value and ecological significance as an indicator of the local ecosystem's health. The comparative analysis demonstrated that the Ban Tham community's identity is deeply rooted in history and religious rituals. In contrast, the Sri Thoi community’s identity is closely tied to agriculture and community activities. Results emphasized the critical role of geographical context in shaping and expressing distinct community identities. Considering the semiotic theory framework, key signifiers reflected these differences: the rock crab symbolized Ban Tham as an "animal" representing its heritage. In contrast, the lychee symbolizes Sri Thoi as a "plant" representative of its agricultural lifestyle and cultural practices, capturing the essence of each community's unique identity.
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