SOCI 422 SOCIETIES AND CULTURE READING MATERIALS FOR ExAMS REVIEWED
2024年 06月 02日
LECTURE TWO
ARTICLE 1: Bryceson Miners' magic: artisanal mining, the albino fetish and murder in Tanzania-2010
ARTICLE SUMMARY:
HOW THE ARTICLE IS RELATED TO THE GHANAIAN SOCIETY.
The article discusses the emergence of an albino fetish in Tanzania, where miners seek charms containing albino body parts to enhance their mining success. This ritualistic practice has led to the murder of albinos for their body parts in a belief that it would bring prosperity. In the context of Ghanaian society, the article might provide insights into how traditional beliefs, economic changes, and social dynamics intersect to influence behaviors and practices.
In Ghana, similar intersections between traditional beliefs, economic activities, and changing social structures can be observed. Traditional spiritual practices, such as juju, and the influence of local healers or traditional priests (often referred to as "fetish priests") are still prevalent in Ghanaian society. These practices sometimes intersect with modern economic activities, such as artisanal mining, trade, and commerce.
The emergence of rituals involving body parts or other fetishes in Ghana, although not specifically related to albinos, could be explored in a similar light. The influence of globalization, economic liberalization, and shifts in traditional livelihoods on Ghanaian society might lead to the adoption of practices that blend traditional beliefs with contemporary economic pursuits, similar to what is observed in the Tanzanian context described in the article.
Furthermore, the article's discussion on the erosion of traditional agricultural practices and the rise of mining as a lucrative but socially disruptive activity could resonate with Ghana's own experiences with gold mining and other extractive industries. These industries have often brought economic opportunities but also social and environmental challenges, affecting local communities, beliefs, and power structures.
Overall, relating the article to Ghanaian society could shed light on how similar dynamics between economic activities, traditional beliefs, and social changes manifest in a different African context.
LIKELY EXAMINABLE QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS FROM THE ARTICLE
Q: What is the article "Miners' magic: artisanal mining, the albino fetish and murder in Tanzania" about?
A: The article discusses the tragic victimization of albinos in Tanzania, exploring how artisanal miners seek charms for luck and success while mining, leading to a disturbing wave of murders.
Q: What are some of the key themes discussed in the article?
A: The themes include commodification of body parts, fetish creation, the role of miners and traditional healers (waganga), the impact of economic changes on rural communities, and the collision of cultural values in the context of mining.
Q: How are the albino murders connected to the broader economic changes in Tanzania?
A: The albino murders are linked to the commodification of body parts, driven by economic pressures and opportunities created by economic liberalization policies and the influx of miners seeking material wealth through mining activities.
Q: What are some of the responses from the Tanzanian government and civil society regarding the albino murders?
A: The Tanzanian government has been slow in delivering justice, with court cases proceeding sluggishly. Civil society groups have petitioned for action against albino murderers, and the government has initiated campaigns to address the issue.
Q: How do the miners and traditional healers view the use of albino body parts in the article?
A: Miners have varying beliefs, with some trusting in the power of the waganga to predict success in mining, while others are suspicious of the practice. Traditional healers (waganga) are seen as instrumental in prescribing albino body parts for luck and success, although some may have financial motivations.
ARTICLE 2: Xhosa Male Circumcision, 2023
ARTICLE SUMMARY:
The article discusses traditional Xhosa male circumcision in South Africa, focusing on its role in the sexual socialization of young men and its relationship to HIV prevention. It notes that while the physical aspects of circumcision have remained similar over time, changes in social and cultural contexts have altered the meaning and impact of the practice. The study suggests that circumcision is now seen more as a gateway to sex than a marker of sexual responsibility. It highlights the erosion of traditional educational aspects of initiation and the emergence of the idea that circumcision grants men unlimited rights to sex. The article argues that campaigns promoting circumcision for HIV prevention need to consider the complex socio-sexual context in which these rituals occur, given issues like gender-based violence and societal changes.
HOW THE ARTICLE IS RELATED TO THE GHANAIAN SOCIETY
The article discusses traditional Xhosa male circumcision practices in South Africa and how they have evolved over time. While the focus is on South Africa, the themes of masculinity, initiation rites, sexual socialization, and HIV prevention through circumcision might have broader relevance to other African societies, including Ghana.
In Ghanaian society, initiation rites and traditional practices play significant roles in shaping gender roles, social expectations, and sexual education. Understanding how circumcision practices impact masculinity, sexual behavior, and societal norms, as discussed in the article, could provide insights into similar practices or challenges faced in Ghana.
The issues of gender-based violence, HIV prevention, intergenerational conflict, and the changing dynamics of traditional rites in the context of contemporary society are relevant topics that can be explored in the Ghanaian context as well. While Ghana may have its unique cultural practices, the broader themes discussed in the article could offer a comparative perspective on male circumcision and its societal implications.
SOME POSSIBLE QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS FROM THE ARTICLE
Possible Question: What are some of the challenges faced by uncircumcised men in Xhosa society according to the article?
Possible Answer: According to the article, uncircumcised men in Xhosa society face discrimination, exclusion from sharing meals, demeaning tasks, and being treated as inferior or not fully human. They are often called derogatory names like "dogs" and are limited in access to material resources and social rights.
Possible Question: How does traditional Xhosa male circumcision play a role in sexual socialization in contemporary South Africa based on the article?
Possible Answer: The article suggests that traditional Xhosa male circumcision in contemporary South Africa has changed in terms of its role in sexual socialization. It highlights the erosion of the role circumcision schools once played in teaching sexual responsibility and restraint to young men. Instead, initiation is now seen as granting unlimited access to sex rather than promoting sexual responsibility.
Possible Question: What are some of the teachings delivered in the circumcision school, as discussed in the article?
Possible Answer: The circumcision school imparts teachings about respect for others, non-violence, and the importance of keeping communication open rather than resorting to violence or using force. It emphasizes that men should think of having one partner and contemplate marriage, showing a shift towards long-term relationships and stability.
These questions and answers are inferred from the content provided in the article.
LECTURE THREE
ARTICLE 1: Marriage in Senegal
ARTICLE SUMMARY AND MAIN THEME:
The article focuses on the dynamics of transnational marriages among Senegalese couples, where one partner migrates abroad for work.
The main theme revolves around the complexities of spousal support and care in these long-distance relationships, particularly through the lens of remittances.
The article highlights how remittances, as economic transactions, are not just about financial support but also about expressing care, affection, and solidarity between partners.
It discusses how the absence of physical proximity in transnational marriages intensifies the importance of remittances as a key means of maintaining spousal connections, often leading to misunderstandings, tensions, and emotional stress due to mismatched expectations and cultural norms.
Additionally, the article sheds light on the gendered aspects of remittances and the performance of care within these relationships, emphasizing the delicate balance between economic and noneconomic acts of connection that are crucial for sustaining satisfying marital partnerships.
HOW THE ARTICLE IS RELATED TO THE GHANAIAN SOCIETY
The article "Intimate Remittances: Marriage, Migration, and MoneyGram in Senegal" focuses on the dynamics of transnational marriages between Senegalese migrant men and their non-migrant wives in Senegal, specifically examining the role of remittances in sustaining these relationships. The research delves into the intricate balance between economic and affective aspects of marriage in the Senegalese context.
To relate this to Ghanaian society, one could infer that the themes explored in the article might have parallels in Ghana. Given that both Ghana and Senegal are in sub-Saharan Africa and share certain cultural characteristics, it is plausible that aspects such as the importance of remittances in maintaining marriages, gendered roles within relationships, and the challenges faced by transnational couples could resonate in the Ghanaian context.
However, for a more accurate comparison, a specific study on Ghanaian transnational marriages, remittance practices, and marital dynamics would be necessary to draw direct parallels between the findings in the article and the realities of Ghanaian society.
QUSTIONS AND ANSWERS INFERRED FROM THE ARTICLE
1. Question: How do Senegalese migrant husbands view their duty of providing remittances to their wives?
Answer: Senegalese migrant husbands see providing remittances to their wives as a fundamental duty, reflecting their role as providers and caretakers in the family.
2. Question: How do non-migrant wives interpret a decrease in remittances from their husbands?
Answer: Non-migrant wives may interpret a decrease in remittances from their husbands as a sign of disinterest or a lack of love, leading to feelings of neglect or abandonment.
3. Question: How do migrant husbands and non-migrant wives navigate the challenges of financial remittances in transnational marriages?
Answer: Migrant husbands and non-migrant wives often experience tension and conflict over financial remittances, with husbands feeling pressure to provide and wives seeking financial support as a sign of care and affection.
4. Question: What role does clothing and appearance play in the dynamics of remittance usage in Senegalese transnational marriages?
Answer: Clothing and appearance are significant factors in how remittances are utilized, with women often feeling the need to dress well to maintain respectability and uphold their husbands' reputation despite financial constraints.
5. Question: How do remittance transfers serve as a medium for demonstrating care and affection in transnational marriages?
Answer: Remittance transfers serve as a primary means for migrant husbands to demonstrate care and affection towards their non-migrant wives, symbolizing continued support and connection despite physical distance.
ARTICLE TWO: Warria-ChildMarriagesChild-2019 (1)
ARTICLE SUMMARY:
The article discusses child marriages, child protection, and sustainable development in Kenya, emphasizing the prevalence of child marriages in the country and their negative impact. It highlights the legal framework in Kenya to combat child marriages and prosecute perpetrators. The analysis reveals that although Kenya has strong laws, the practice of child marriages persists and is even increasing in some areas. The article calls for a child-rights approach in policies and reproductive health measures, addressing socioeconomic vulnerabilities as root causes. It stresses the need for collective responsibility in child protection and reproductive well-being, not just legislative reforms.
ARTICLE THEME:
The main theme of the article "Child Marriages, Child Protection and Sustainable Development in Kenya: Is Legislation Sufficient?" is the examination of child marriages in Kenya within the context of child protection, legislative frameworks, and sustainable development. The article delves into the prevalence of child marriages, the legal and policy landscape in Kenya to combat child marriages, the intersections between cultural practices and legal frameworks, and the implications for child protection, reproductive health, and sustainable development. It discusses the challenges in implementing laws, the role of education in preventing child marriages, and the need for comprehensive interventions beyond legislative reforms to address this harmful practice.
HOW THE ARTICLE IS RELATED TO THE GHANAIAN SOCIETY:
The article titled "Child Marriages, Child Protection and Sustainable Development in Kenya: Is Legislation Sufficient?" primarily focuses on child marriages in Kenya, examining the legislative framework in the country, international conventions, and implications for child protection, reproductive health, and sustainable development. The content of the article specifically addresses the situation in Kenya, discussing prevalence rates, legal frameworks, and challenges in preventing child marriages.
While the article does not directly discuss Ghana, some of the issues and themes raised in the context of child marriages in Kenya may have relevance to Ghanaian society. Ghana, like Kenya, also faces challenges related to child marriages, gender inequality, cultural practices, and the implementation of laws to protect children. Therefore, insights from the article on strategies to address child marriages, promote gender equality, and enhance child protection could potentially be applied or adapted to the Ghanaian context.
However, to draw direct parallels or implications for Ghana, a more specific analysis of child marriage practices, legal frameworks, and societal factors in Ghana would be necessary.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS DEVELOPED FROM THE ARTICLE:
Possible questions and answers from the article "Child Marriages, Child Protection, and Sustainable Development in Kenya: Is Legislation Sufficient?" could include:
1. Question: What is the prevalence of child marriages in Kenya?
Answer: Child marriages are estimated to be prevalent in Kenya with a prevalence rate of 25-30%.
2. Question: How does education impact the prevalence of child marriages?
Answer: Education can delay marriage as each additional year of primary or secondary school correlates with higher wages for women later in life.
3. Question: How does the legal framework in Kenya address child marriages?
Answer: Kenya has a strong legal framework to prosecute perpetrators of child marriages, but implementation challenges persist, especially in rural areas.
4. Question: What are some of the underlying factors contributing to child marriages in Kenya?
Answer: Factors contributing to child marriages in Kenya include customary practices, gender inequalities, poverty, and weak child protection systems.
5. Question: What are some of the implications of child marriages on sustainable development?
Answer: Child marriages compromise a child's development, threaten the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals, and have long-term negative consequences on individuals and society.
These questions and answers provide insight into the key points discussed in the article regarding child marriages, legislation, child protection, and their impact on sustainable development in Kenya.
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| 2024-06-02 22:16
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