The Religious Ethics and Philosophical Thought of Ethnic Minorities in Yunnan: Analysing Their Expression and Transmission Through Indigenous Languages

Abstract

This study delves into the religious ethics and philosophical thought of ethnic minorities in Yunnan, such as the Naxi, Dai, and Yi peoples, examining the philosophical foundations underlying their religious beliefs. The research explores how these ethical and philosophical concepts are intricately expressed and transmitted through the indigenous languages of these communities. The paper uncovers how language serves as a crucial medium for preserving and communicating these deep-rooted beliefs by analysing the linguistic structures and cultural contexts. The study also highlights the role of language in maintaining the continuity of religious and philosophical traditions, offering insights into the symbiotic relationship between language and thought in preserving cultural identity. Through a multidisciplinary approach, this research contributes to understanding how indigenous languages encapsulate and convey the ethical and philosophical worldviews of Yunnan's ethnic minorities, ensuring their transmission across generations.