Ignorance Weaponized: Misogyny, Witchcraft Accusations, and the Fight
for Women’s Dignity
By Mabelle Prior
Across time and continents, misogyny has disguised itself as tradition, spirituality, and even divine judgment. But it is neither. It is ignorance weaponized.
Case Study 1: The Cane as Witchcraft
Women are disproportionately affected by osteoarthritis and joint disorders. Hormonal differences and bone density variations increase risks after puberty. A cane is not a symbol of evil—it is an assistive device that supports mobility, independence, and dignity.
Gender
Women
Men
Likelihood of Osteoarthritis
Higher (knees, hips, hands)
Lower, later onset
Case Study 2: Intergenerational Care
Accusations of witchcraft against women surrounded by younger caregivers misinterpret a cultural reality. Sociologists define this as intergenerational care—a vital cultural practice.
Stage
Elderly Woman
Younger Family Member
Community
Description
Receives support
Provides care while studying/working
Maintains cycle of support
Case Study 3: Birds, Trees, and Ecological Myths
Birds’ nesting decisions are based on ecology—not mysticism. Human activity, pruning, food, and shelter influence their behavior.
Factor Impact
Shelter availability
Food sources
Human activity
Tree pruning
High
Critical
Discourages nesting
Reduces nesting sites
Historical Roots of Witchcraft Accusations
Witchcraft accusations disproportionately targeted women. In Europe (15th–18th centuries), over 80% of victims were women. In Africa, elderly women remain the main targets today.
Region
Europe
Victims (Women %) Period
80% 15th–18th centuries
Africa Majority elderly women Present
Theological Perspective
Christian scripture rejects false judgment and elevates compassion and equality.
“Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.” — John 7:24
“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” — Galatians 3:28
Conclusion
Misogyny, not morality, fuels witchcraft accusations against women. The responsibility of our generation is to unlearn lies, dismantle harmful traditions, and honor women with compassion, not condemnation.
References
Arthritis Foundation. Women and Arthritis. [Arthritis.org]
Federici, Silvia. Witches, Witch-Hunting, and Women. PM Press, 2018. Levack, Brian. The Witch-Hunt in Early Modern Europe. Routledge, 2015.
Adinkrah, Mensah. Witchcraft, Witches, and Violence in Ghana. Berghahn Books, 2015. WHO. Ageing and Health Fact Sheet, 2022.
Holy Bible: John 7:24; Galatians 3:28.