perimätutkimus

Perimätutkimus, often translated as heritage research or traditional studies, is a field that focuses on the collection, documentation, and preservation of intangible cultural heritage. This encompasses a wide range of human activities, knowledge, and practices passed down through generations, such as oral traditions, performing arts, social practices, rituals, festive events, knowledge and practices concerning nature and the universe, and traditional craftsmanship. The core aim of perimätutkimus is to understand, safeguard, and sometimes revitalize these living cultural expressions that contribute to a community's identity and sense of continuity.

Researchers in perimätutkimus employ various methodologies, including fieldwork, interviews, participant observation, and archival research. They often collaborate with communities to ensure that the research process is respectful and beneficial to the bearers of the traditions. The findings are typically documented through written reports, audio-visual recordings, and the creation of archives. This research is crucial for cultural heritage policies, education, and for fostering an appreciation of the diversity of human cultures. In Finland, where the term originated, perimätutkimus has a strong tradition, often linked to ethnographic and folkloristic studies. The focus is not just on the past, but on the present-day relevance and future transmission of these heritage elements.