Here is a bizarre example of an emic behavior - cannibalism. Incidents of cannibalism, with the meaning of an animal consuming members of its own kind, can of course be found in all cultures (etic) and even in the animal kingdom, but the reason for it varies. In regards to emics, there may be underlying cultural beliefs behind the behavior. One cultural belief is that one that devours another being will acquire the strength of that individual. Cannibalism as a cultural behavior is almost extinct, although there is some evidence that the Korowai tribe of Papua New Guinea is still practising it.
Some research suggests that the devouring of human flesh may have protected us from brain disease in the early ages: Cannibalism normal for early ages? Most researchers claim that eating of human meat is dangerous, because it can spread infections disease and is full of toxics. It is probably more dangerous to eat than other types of meat because of the genetic resemblance. Amongst the Fore tribe of Papua New Guinea (the one that Ekman studied) who used to be cannibals there was a brain disease called Kuru (or the laughing sickness due to the extreme outbursts of laughter in those suffering from it. It was endemic among the Fore people, leds to muscle decay and finally death and was more common in women and children (because they were given the less desirable parts of the human body, such as the brain) The disease was believed to be caused by prions.
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AuthorThis is my class blog for IB Psychology. Here I will publish reflections on psychology, reviews of psychology books, recommended links, lecture notes, and information on psychology topics that are not covered by the syllabus. You are free to add comments or ask me questions. Archives
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