Witchcraft, violence and mediation in Africa : a comparative study of Ghana and Cameroon
Date
2014
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School of Political Studies, University of Ottawa
Abstract
Security, insecurity and protection are all aspects of power relations. This thesis explores how witchcraft-related violence may be addressed through the discipline of political science. A comparative analysis investigates the effectiveness of four actors’ mediation efforts: the state, religious organizations, NGOs and traditional authorities that are typically unable to acknowledge the reality of witchcraft and or address experiences of it, nor answer the needs of those seeking redress. The history of anthropological works in Africa have been justifiably critiqued for dismissing or ridiculing African traditional religions and beliefs. Though the intention to avoid insult is commendable, it is not reason enough to overlook important questions and to evade debate.
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Keywords
TRADITIONAL SOCIETIES, GHANA, CAMEROON, COLONIZATION, ABUSE OF POWER, VIOLENCE RESEARCH, AFRICA SOUTH OF SAHARA, SPIRITUALISM, POLITICAL POWER, POLITICAL SCIENCE, FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION, NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS