This book combines the study of witchcraft and sorcery with the study of rumours and gossip, and explains the role of rumour and gossip in the genesis of social and political violence. Examples are drawn from Africa, Europe, India, Papua New Guinea, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia.

Two classic topics in social anthropology are combined in this work--the study of witchcraft and sorcery and the study of rumors and gossip. After revealing the importance of rumor and gossip as catalysts for accusations of witchcraft and sorcery, it demonstrates their role in the genesis of social and political violence, as seen in peasant rebellions, as well as witch-hunts. The study draws upon examples from Africa, Europe, India, Papua New Guinea, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia.