In her book "Kuru Sorcery," Shirley Lindenbaum takes readers on a captivating journey into the fascinating world of the Fore people in Papua New Guinea. Through meticulous research and an anthropological lens, Lindenbaum unveils the intricate and mysterious practices of kuru sorcery within this remarkable community.
One of the book's remarkable qualities is its rich historical context, tracing the origins of kuru disease and its profound impact on the Fore people. Lindenbaum explores the beliefs and rituals surrounding death and the transmission of the disease, offering a comprehensive understanding of the cultural and social intricacies at play. Moreover, her attention to detail and sensitivity to the Fore people's experiences make this book an invaluable resource for those interested in anthropology or medical anthropology.
What sets "Kuru Sorcery" apart is Lindenbaum's exploration of the role of sorcery within the Fore culture. She delves deep into the intricate web of beliefs and practices that contribute to sorcery accusations and the subsequent recourse to sorcery within the community. This not only offers insights into the Fore people's worldview but also prompts broader reflections on the nature of accusation and social control across human societies.
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Lindenbaum artfully weaves together ethnographic research, historical analysis, and firsthand accounts to present a nuanced and multi-faceted view of kuru sorcery. Through engaging narratives and personal anecdotes, she brings the reader into the lives of the Fore people, highlighting their resilience and the challenges they face in the face of an incurable disease.
"Kuru Sorcery" is an invaluable contribution to the field of anthropology, providing a comprehensive and insightful exploration of kuru sorcery and its impact on the Fore people of Papua New Guinea. With its compelling storytelling and rigorous research, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of cultural practices and beliefs in a unique and isolated community.
What are readers saying?
Kuru Sorcery, written by Shirley Lindenbaum, has received a range of reviews from readers. The book delves into the topic of kuru, a fatal neurological disorder that affects the Fore tribe in Papua New Guinea, and explores the cultural and social aspects surrounding it. Some readers highly praised the book for its extensive research and scholarly approach, finding it informative and captivating. They admired Lindenbaum's attention to detail and her ability to explain complex concepts in an accessible manner. These readers also appreciated the book's contribution to the field of medical anthropology.
On the other hand, some readers expressed their disappointment with Kuru Sorcery. They found the book dense and difficult to read due to its heavy reliance on academic jargon. They hoped for a more engaging narrative that would help them better understand the impact of kuru on the Fore tribe. Some reviewers also noted that the book lacked a clear structure, leading to difficulty in following the author's arguments. They felt overwhelmed by the abundance of information and the frequent shifts between different aspects of kuru. These readers desired a more cohesive and linear presentation of the material.
Furthermore, a few readers criticized the book for being outdated since its original publication in 1993. They believed that the research and understanding of kuru may have progressed in the years since, making some of the information in the book less relevant.
In summary, the reviews for Kuru Sorcery demonstrate a divide among readers. While some readers praised Lindenbaum's thorough research and insights into kuru and its cultural implications, others found the book challenging to read and lacking in narrative structure.