Intangible Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Development

This insightful book explores how Intangible Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Development can advance sustainable development through cultural practices and community engagement.

The book Intangible Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Development offers a comprehensive exploration of how intangible cultural heritage (ICH) can serve as a catalyst for sustainable development. It delves into the mechanisms through which ICH fosters identity and community cohesion, positioning these cultural practices as vital tools for social and economic progress. By presenting a model grounded in Pierre Bourdieu’s ‘Theory of Practice’, the author illustrates how heritage can be valorized to unlock its developmental potential, thereby addressing both cultural preservation and economic growth.

Through practical examples, including a detailed case study of a German choral tradition not officially recognized as ICH, the book demonstrates the applicability of its proposed model. This case study highlights the real-world implications of the valorisation framework and showcases how cultural practices can be leveraged for broader societal benefits. The insights provided in Intangible Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Development emphasize the importance of recognizing and harnessing the potential of ICH beyond the confines of UNESCO’s initiatives.

Targeted towards cultural heritage scholars and practitioners, this book serves as a vital resource for understanding the intersection of culture and sustainable development. It encourages readers to rethink how intangible cultural heritage can be utilized not just for preservation but as a dynamic force for positive change in communities worldwide.