article
The traditional classification and treatment of illness on Woleai and Lamotrek in the Caroline Islands, Micronesia
Culture • 2 (1) • Published In 1982 • Pages: 29-41
By: Alkire, William H..
Abstract
This article argues that the classification of illness and treatment in Woleai and Lamotrek Atolls is related to knowledge and associated beliefs involving three classes of spirits. These are 'malevolent' spirits that cause sickness, divination spirits that diagnose ailments, and 'good' spirits that aid in curing. As a consequence, patients who seek treatment need to consult with three types of specialits, namely diviners, medcine curers and massage curers, who focus on each of these three classes of spirits.
- HRAF PubDate
- 2000
- Region
- Oceania
- Sub Region
- Micronesia
- Document Type
- article
- Evaluation
- Creator Type
- Ethnologist
- Document Rating
- 5: Excellent Primary Data
- Analyst
- Teferi Abate Adem ; 2005
- Field Date
- 1962-1963,1965,1975-1976
- Coverage Date
- 1899-1976
- Coverage Place
- Woleai and Lamotrek Atolls, Woleai Region, Federated States of Micronesia
- Notes
- William H. Alkire
- Includes bibliographical references (p. 41)
- LCCN
- 90641213
- LCSH
- Lamotrek (Micronesia)/Caroline Islands--Social life and customs/Micronesians--Social life and customs