THE CONCEPT OF MAGIC IN THE CONTEMPORARY AFRICAN WORLD

Abstract

This paper investigates the concept of magical powers within African societies, focusing on their origins and significance from an African perspective. Many traditional African communities believe that the universe possesses a mystical force that can be manipulated through the ontological or hierarchical structure of existence. These powers, though acknowledged in African cosmology, remain largely mysterious, with only a few individuals understanding how to access or use them. Due to their elusive nature, magical powers are often dismissed as trickery, hypnotism, or psychological phenomena by outsiders. The study examines the increasing use of magical powers in contemporary African societies, especially among the youth of Southeast Nigeria. It employs the theoretical framework of African metaphysics, which views the universe as a dynamic interaction between visible and invisible forces, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of magic within its cultural context. Additionally, the research will utilize social constructivism to explore how modern African societies reinterpret and adapt traditional beliefs about magic to suit contemporary realities. The significance of this study lies in its exploration of how mystical powers are evolving in response to modern challenges and influences. It contributes to discussions on African spirituality, the intersection of tradition and modernity, and the preservation of indigenous knowledge systems. By focusing on the rising popularity of magical practices among young people in the Southeast of Nigeria, this paper offers insights into the social and psychological factors driving this trend and its broader implications for African cultural identity and belief systems in the modern era.