Broderick, Bidi Norma (2023) The Evolution of African Witchcraft as a Response to Misfortune: A Qualitative Study of African Spirituality in Nairobi, Kenya and Black Diasporic Communities in London, United Kingdom. Doctoral thesis, York St John University.

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Abstract

The main purpose of this research is to counter some of the misunderstandings and stereotypes prevalent in Christian churches, popular culture and public services. In particular, it recognises that to understand African spirituality as a lived religion, it is necessary to listen to the voices of those who have first-hand experience with misfortune and have engaged with African spiritual healers and religious experts. The study employed qualitative research methods to gather insights from people for whom African religious spirituality is an important element in their daily lives. The research was undertaken in two settings, namely Nairobi and London, through semi-structured interviews, and background information was drawn from archives and reports. The findings were analysed using a multi-disciplinary approach that included religious studies, psychology, sociology, anthropology and literary sources. The main scholars who contributed to furthering the understanding of African indigenous belief and lived religion were Laurenti Magesa, Jomo Kenyatta, Graham Harvey and Robert Orsi. For the diasporic experience and process, the main scholars were Seán McLoughlin, E.M. Pye, Peggy Levitt and Robert Beckford. Throughout the study, the metaphor of ‘the spiritual suitcase’ was used to explore how and to what extent indigenous African beliefs have travelled to the United Kingdom (UK). Most importantly, the study included a discussion on whether notions of witchcraft as ‘evil’ are appropriate. The participants in this research represented a broad segment of society. They included church leaders, academics, ordained clergy, church laity, village leaders and those who work with asylum seekers. The key finding of this research is that African spiritual beliefs are still prominent in the lives of people with African heritage, with the majority believing in forces that can be manipulated for positive or negative ends. In many cases, people combine these African spiritual beliefs with Christian beliefs and practices, while for others there is a noticeable shift towards African-based spirituality.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Status:	Published
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BL Religion
School/Department:	School of Humanities
URI:	https://ray.yorksj.ac.uk/id/eprint/9553

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