The Supernatural in the Natural

Today was supposed to be the first day of class. I reported to room ARD for SO: 264 – Introduction to Medical Sociology and Anthropology promptly at 12:55pm. Class started at one o’clock. Being on time was a benefit because my professor is a punctual man and made a scene of everyone who was late. This class is an overview of healthcare in relationship to cultural and social systems and norms. I’m really interested in taking it.

My professor this afternoon made an interesting statement in his introduction to medical pluralism. In the context of talking about alternative healthcare systems, he used a personal example. He stated, “In my life I have never taken a malaria tablet. When the doctors tell me I have malaria, I say that I am going to pray. It is an attack on my body.” I wasn’t the least bit bothered by it. The rest of my international cohort made it the topic of the day…almost in a mocking way. I finally mentioned that I was amused by the fact they seemed so bothered by his comment. It is his belief given in the context of saying that it was his method. I think I am less bothered by this because I come from a community that believes in healing. (Personally, I would take the malaria tablet and pray. The side effects are nasty.)

This leads me to an observation. Most of the students I am lumped in a group with are really skeptical about matters dealing with the supernatural in reference to God or witchcraft. This is not the only time I’ve seen this though the comments following class today led me to much thought. This culture is one that embraces the supernatural in the form of God or witchcraft. It is in the media, pop culture, lifestyles and conversation. Coming to Tanzania, it is necessary to have some concept of the effect of supernatural beliefs in the day to day lives of the people. Using the supernatural to explain things from malaria in infertility or a bad business day is common. Coming from the background I do, it has given me the ability to have conversations with people about these views. When something good happens, it is usually attributed to God. When it is a negative event or series of events, it is the result of witchcraft, probably a close family member or friend who is jealous of success or possessions.

More to come later…running out of rented computer time.