Abstract
Witch-hunt is an often overlooked but major social problem in many of the societies in the Global South. Ghana and Nepal represent two such societies where modern-day witch-hunt is frequently reported. This study examines the similarities and differences in witchcraft beliefs and practices in Ghana and Nepal as well as the perpetration of aggressive acts against putative witches in these two societies. Among the issues explored are superstition, witchcraft beliefs, socio-demographic characteristics of victims and perpetrators of witch-hunts, as well as the socio-cultural contexts within which witch-hunts occur. Key words: Witchcraft, witch hunt, witches, wizards, Ghana, Nepal.
Highlights
In recent years, the number of media reports featuring violent persecution of putative witches has burgeoned.Ghana and Nepal represent two countries that have featured prominently in media reports on witch-hunts (ActionAid, 2012; Global Health Promotion, 2012; MacDougall, 2011; “Mob Kills Three,” 2012; “Nepal MobBurns ‘Witch’ Alive,” 2012; Parajuli, 2013; Paudel, 2011; Shrestha, 2012; Whitaker, 2012)
Based on our preliminary research, we find that there are similarities and differences in witchcraft beliefs and practices in Ghana and Nepal
It is recommended that doctors and health service personnel refrain from making such recommendations
Summary
The number of media reports featuring violent persecution of putative witches has burgeoned. Witchcraft power is used to influence the health (longevity, sickness, drowning, death), or behavior of another person (the witchcraft victim) or to cause a physical action (e.g. drought, earthquake) or social event (unemployment, divorce, auto accident) in the victim or the witch’s society In both Ghana and Nepal, witchcraft is believed to be a supernatural power possessed by witches (Debrunner, 1978; Bannerman-Richter, 1982; Global Health Promotion, 2012). Among some ethnic groups in Ghana, such as the Akans, a witch can only use his or her witchcraft power to cause harm or death to a member of his or her matrilineage. The following analysis suggests that witch hunts in Ghana and Nepal fit this pattern
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: International Journal of Sociology and Anthropology
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
