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Explaining Disease through Witchcraft: The Example of HIV/AIDS in Zimbabwe

Chris Boardman

Story Created: Nov 9, 2009 at 1:40 PM EST

Story Updated: Nov 9, 2009 at 1:40 PM EST

Event Details

Date: November 20, 2009

Event Description

PROVIDENCE, R.I — On Friday, November 20, at 5:30 p.m., Alexander Rödlach (Medical Anthropologist, Departwill speak about how HIV/AIDS is a catastrophic health crisis with complex cultural dimensions. Explanations of where it comes from, who gets it, and who dies are tied to political agendas, religious beliefs, and the psychology of devastating grief. Professor Rödlach shows how beliefs about witchcraft surrounding HIV/AIDS are an important element in Zimbabweans’ efforts to understand why someone has fallen ill with AIDS-related conditions, to offer hope for healing, and to appeal for help. He also demonstrates the impact of these beliefs on public health and advocacy programs, arguing that cultural misunderstandings contribute to the failure of many well-intentioned efforts. The lecture takes place at the Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology at Manning Hall on Brown University’s main green. A reception will follow.

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