African Science: Witchcraft, Vodun, and Healing in Southern Benin - Falen, Douglas J.

As New; In this investigation into the Beninese understanding of Aze (roughly translated as "witchcraft"), Falen wrestles with the challenges of encountering a reality in which magic, science, and religion converge. According to his informants, possessing aze requires a practitioner to have specialized knowledge to harness nature's energy. However, its boundless power may corrupt users. For residents in southern Benin, witches and healers are considered equivalent to supervillains and superheroes, locked in epic battles over malevolent and benevolent human desires. Falen demonstrates how a deep engagement with another lived reality opens our minds and contributes understanding across cultural differences.
As New
Soft cover
University of Wisconsin Press
2020
Madison, WI