Full Library

"Weapons of the Weak" challenges conventional understandings of peasant resistance by focusing on the subtle, often overlooked ways that peasants resist domination. Rather than focusing on dramatic uprisings, Scott examines the everyday acts of resistance that occur in the shadows of power. Key Arguments Resistance is not always visible: Scott argues that resistance is not limited to organized rebellions. Everyday acts like foot-dragging, gossip, feigned ignorance, and petty theft can be powerful forms of resistance. Hidden transcripts: Scott introduces the concept of "hidden transcripts," which are the informal, offstage discourses where subordinate groups express their grievances and resistance. These transcripts are often hidden from the dominant group. Moral economy: Scott emphasizes the importance of the "moral economy" of peasant societies, which are based on shared norms of reciprocity and fairness. When these norms are violated, peasants may resist. Hegemony is not complete: Scott challenges the idea that dominant ideologies completely control the minds of subordinate groups. He shows that peasants often have their own interpretations of the world and their place in it. The book is divided into three parts: Part I: The Setting: Introduces the village of Sedaka in Malaysia, where Scott conducted his research. It describes the social and economic structure of the village and the changes that were taking place. Part II: The Everyday Forms of Resistance: This section examines the various ways that peasants in Sedaka resisted domination. It includes chapters on gossip, foot-dragging, sabotage, and other forms of resistance. Part III: The Moral Economy and the Ideology of Resistance: This section explores the moral economy of the village and how it shapes peasant resistance. It also examines the "hidden transcripts" of resistance and the ways that peasants make sense of their world. Key Concepts Weapons of the weak: The everyday forms of resistance used by subordinate groups. Hidden transcripts: The informal, offstage discourses where subordinate groups express their grievances and resistance. Moral economy: The shared norms of reciprocity and fairness in peasant societies. Hegemony: The dominance of a particular set of ideas or beliefs.