Embodying Choreosophy in Comtemporary Society: Dance Ethics and Social Practice

This doctoral research project centres on “Choreosophy,” exploring the ethical and epistemological dimensions of dance as a moral practice. The concept can be traced to the times of Pythagoras and of Plato and revived by Rudolf Laban in 1920 as a theory of ethics and aesthetics for new dance and dance education. The primary aim of the research has been to revisit and redefine choreosophy within the context of contemporary social practices and subsequently, to disseminate the educational value of dance and movement practices through systematic movement theories and practice-based methods. It seeks to help individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds connect through artistic creation while examining how personal artistic participation shapes their identity and experiences. Additionally, the research reflects on the ethical and aesthetic values conveyed by choreosophyin movement education, reflecting on and highlighting the significance of its practice.

The study reviews the movement research system devised by Rudolf Laban, with a focus on the social value of dance in the 20th century. Particular attention is given to Laban's contributions in promoting amateur and community dance in Germany, Switzerland, and the UK, as well as his explorations of public living spaces at Monte Verità . It also highlights Laban’s ambition in establishing an independent dance language and culture and subsequently his implementation of modern educational dance in the UK. The thesis is structured around five key themes, these include:
1. the relationship between community dance and identity,
2. residents’ autonomy over public spaces,
3. perception-guided dance language and research methods,
4. holistic and psychophysical education for young dancers,
5. future directions for movement psychology research.

Thorough a series of case studies undertaken in Beijing, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong, the research involves nearly 80 participants. The participants are from different backgrounds each with varied movement-based experiences and ambitions. The goal in this research is to delineate the educational, personal, and social values that emerge from both collective and individual engagement with movement, through the recognition of ourselves as embodied, sensing beings in motion.