Magic, Beliefs, and Politics in Madagascar

This chapter examines the significant role of magical beliefs and witchcraft within Madagascar's sociopolitical landscape, particularly relating to violent gangs called Dahalo. It discusses how fear of witchcraft has historically influenced legal systems and led to tragic outcomes, such as the witch hunts of the English Civil War. The speaker also explores the implications these beliefs have on global politics and contemporary cultural perceptions of witches, connecting historical events to modern understandings.