Can't pay, won't pay: occult conflicts over neoliberal social relations in contemporary Zimbabwe. Issue 2 (4th May 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Jeater, Diana; Mashinge, Jairos L.
• Is Part Of: Third world thematics. Volume 2:Issue 2/3(2017)
• Page Start: 263
• Page End: 278
• Publication Date: 2017-05-04
• Subjects: Zimbabwe -- ngozi -- witchcraft -- neoliberalism -- pentecostalism -- healing; Developing countries -- Economic conditions -- Periodicals; Developing countries -- Politics and government -- Periodicals; Globalization -- Periodicals; 338.90091724
• DOI: 10.1080/23802014.2017.1314770
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2379-9978

Abstract

Abstract: Based on interviews in Zimbabwe in 2016, the authors argue that stories about unsettled ngozi spirits are a powerful lens through which to understand grassroots experiences of neoliberalism. In the 1990s, ngozi symptoms of death and madness were associated with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and were instrumental in bringing families of victims and perpetrators together after war, to reconcile. Today, however, these symptoms are associated more with economic injustice. Resolving them has become a matter of payment, not reconciliation and human relationships. Anger is directed towards uncooperative family members and Pentecostal churches for perpetuating rather than healing this occult suffering.