Thinking with Ngangas: What Afro-Cuban Ritual Can Tell Us about Scientific Practice and Vice Versa

Stephan Palmié conducts comparative investigations of Afro-Cuban ritual and Western science to challenge the rationality of Western expert practices, revealing the logic that brings together enchantment and experiment.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 10 October 2023
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

A captivating exploration of the intricate relationship between Afro-Cuban ritual and Western science emerges in Stephan Palmié's groundbreaking work. Drawing inspiration from the pioneering efforts of Father Lafitau, an eighteenth-century Jesuit priest and protoethnographer, Palmié embarks on a series of extraordinary comparative investigations. These investigations delve into the enigmatic realm of ngangas, a complex assemblage of mineral, animal, and vegetal materials, including human remains, that serve as the embodiment of the spirits of the dead.

Moreover, Palmié delves into the fascinating intersection of genomics and "ancestry projects" with divination and oracular systems. He explores how Black Cubans in the United States have harnessed Edisonian technology to project the disembodied voice of a mystical entity named ecué onto the streets of Philadelphia. By writing about Afro-Cuban ritual in relation to Western scientific practice, and vice versa, Palmié aims to challenge the rationality of Western expert practices, unveiling the underlying logic that connects enchantment and experiment.

Through his meticulous research and thought-provoking analysis, Palmié offers a profound exploration of the cultural and historical significance of Afro-Cuban ritual and Western science. He sheds light on the ways in which these two realms intersect, illuminating the rich tapestry of knowledge and belief systems that have shaped human societies throughout history. This comparative investigation not only expands our understanding of these complex phenomena but also challenges us to reevaluate our assumptions about the nature of knowledge and expertise.

In conclusion, Stephan Palmié's work is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary inquiry and the potential for cross-cultural understanding. By exploring the intricate relationship between Afro-Cuban ritual and Western science, he has provided us with a valuable lens through which to examine the complexities of human experience and the boundaries of rationality. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of culture, science, and belief, and it will undoubtedly inspire further exploration and dialogue in this field.

Weight: 426g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226825946