Problem
Evan Evans-Pritchard describes circumstances in which how cause and effect could not completely explain an event, hence they were attributed to witchcraft or magic. He states:
"The concept of witchcraft nevertheless provide [the Azande] with a natural philosophy by which the relations between men and unfortunate events are explained and with a ready and stereotyped means of reacting to such events. Witchcraft beliefs also embrace a system of values which regulate human conduct" (Evans-Pritchard 1979: 363).
He draws on several examples that he observed among the Azande to show how misfortunes that could not easily be explained, could be explained in terms of magic, the most famous being the granary example.
• Explain what Evans-Pritchard means in the above quotation and how it contributes to his overall argument. What does he mean by saying witchcraft can be used to explain/understand "unfortunate events"?
• I would add that you could also say religious beliefs are also used to explain misfortunes. Can you think of an example of an unfortunate event that can be explained in terms of one's beliefs? (Relate or compare your example to the Evans-Pritchard article). [If you wish you can use an example from the film "The Asmat of New Guinea].