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The Alternative Economics of Alternative Healing: Faith-Based Therapies in Brazil’s Religious Marketplace

The Economics of Ecology, Exchange, and Adaptation: Anthropological Explorations

ISBN: 978-1-78635-228-6, eISBN: 978-1-78635-227-9

Publication date: 1 September 2016

Abstract

Purpose

This chapter examines the economics of alternative healing in Brazil.

Methodology/approach

Two narratives are selected from extensive observations and interviews over a period of years. The presentation chronicles the accounts of people experiencing physical symptoms who sought further advice from friends and relatives after visits to conventional medical providers failed to cure them.

Findings

In response to a recommendation from one of those consulted, one person went to a spirit “received” by a Kardecist/Spiritist healer-medium while the other obtained treatment from an otherworldly being at an Umbanda center. The respective “therapeutic” procedures are described and analyzed in terms of the beliefs and the worldviews of each of the traditions. If satisfied with the outcome, the patient fulfills an implicit bargain with the otherworldly being(s) and its religious group by adopting their beliefs and practices. This conversion is “payment” for the healing services rendered.

Social implications

Since some treatments are successful and others are not, the implications of this exchange is that many Brazilians may change their religions several times during their lifespan. As a result of this behavior individuals circulate among the several religious groups that are always in competition with each other.

Originality/value

The analysis provides a distinctive insight into, and original way to understand, alternative health care in Brazil.

Keywords

Citation

Greenfield, S.M. (2016), "The Alternative Economics of Alternative Healing: Faith-Based Therapies in Brazil’s Religious Marketplace ", The Economics of Ecology, Exchange, and Adaptation: Anthropological Explorations (Research in Economic Anthropology, Vol. 36), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 315-336. https://doi.org/10.1108/S0190-128120160000036012

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2016 Emerald Group Publishing Limited