Dismembering/disremembering the Buddhas

Abstract

In February of 2001, Afghanistan’s de facto Taliban government publicly announced its intention to systematically destroy every statue within its borders. Immediately, numerous nations, organizations and individuals rallied to avert the impending destruction. Despite these efforts, countless objects were obliterated, including the two colossal Buddhas of Bamiyan carved nearly two millennia ago. This article explores this disturbing, yet fascinating, episode with a particular view towards the discourses that emerged on the Internet just preceding and following the Afghan purge. Setting aside the theological and moral questions that arise from these events, the author aims to elucidate the intersection of ancient artifacts and modern politics, local action and global reaction, and the material and immaterial clashes that shaped the worldwide debate. Oriented around Marcus’ notions of global-local, simultaneity and complex connections, this study views the Internet as a metaphor for Marcus’ theory, as well as an object for ethnographic inquiry to examine the politics of the past in the present.