ANTHROP 1AB3 Lecture Notes - Lecture 6: Modern Paganism, Tanya Luhrmann, Zande People
25 Oct 2017
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Definition of witchcraft: the manipulation of powerful substances or words (via magic) to cause harm (only occasionally good). It can also frequently be an unconscious activity, which means that the witch often does not know that he/she is bewitching anyone. With a few exceptions in some cultures (eg. wicca, a form of neo- paganism), the witch is seen as inherently evil. Usually inherited condition can thus be passive (see winzeler; azande example) The actual existence of a witch is immaterial. James l. brain, an anthropological perspective on the witchcraze . Witchcraft is a widespread belief, but mostly found in horticultural/farming societies; rare in h and g societies. Christian church (catholicism) was dominant factor in organizing daily life. Women who challenged patriarchal institutions in any way were often accused of being witches. North central africa ethnic group organized into chiefdoms. Many have been christianized, but witchcraft beliefs co-exist with christianity.
