Stylized Protest: Rastafarian Symbols of Identification

Abstract

This paper examines some of the symbols of identification used by the Rastafarians. The paper provides some historical background dealing with the emergence of the Rastafarian movement and in particular, the emergence of various symbols of identification. The meaning and representation of these symbols is discussed in light of the movement's political and religious beliefs. Within the framework of current anthropological thought regarding symbolism, the paper analyzes Rastafarian symbols of identification in terms of their representation of the polarities of nature versus culture and pure versus profane.