Indigenous healing in South Africa: looking for a tree of truth in the forest of illusions
Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication
ISSN: 2514-9342
Article publication date: 2 June 2022
Issue publication date: 20 November 2023
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to investigate the indigenous healing space in South Africa, by zooming in on the confusions that are faced by young people in the country. These muddles are a result of the country’s colonial and apartheid history which left the population divided between the Western and African philosophies when it comes to health among other things. The recent technological developments which are embraced by some of the healers exposed the space to exploitation by criminal elements.
Design/methodology/approach
This qualitative study used content analysis and interviews to gather data.
Findings
The results suggest that the indigenous healing space in South Africa is poorly regulated and a fertile breeding ground for criminals. As a result, it is not easy to distinguish between genuine healers and bogus ones. The technological advancement, especially social media, has exposed the space to further exploitation by criminal elements.
Originality/value
This study paints a picture of the indigenous healing space in the age of technology in South Africa. This study further explains challenges faced by South Africans in navigating philosophical challenges influenced by their colonial past.
Keywords
Citation
Maluleka, J.R. and Nkwe, M. (2023), "Indigenous healing in South Africa: looking for a tree of truth in the forest of illusions", Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication, Vol. 72 No. 8/9, pp. 779-796. https://doi.org/10.1108/GKMC-12-2021-0202
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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