Marshall Poe
Marshall Poe
Lisa L. Gezon, “Drug Effects: Khat in Biocultural and Socioeconomic Perspective” (Left Coast Press, 2012)
Lisa L. Gezon, “Drug Effects: Khat in Biocultural and Socioeconomic Perspective” (Left Coast Press, 2012)
Lisa L. Gezon, “Drug Effects: Khat in Biocultural and Socioeconomic Perspective” (Left Coast Press, 2012)
Friday 28th November 2014
Explore khat's cultural and economic impact with Lisa L. Gezon's 'Drug Effects: Khat in Biocultural and Socioeconomic Perspective'.
82 minutes
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Get the buttons here!Khat: Unraveling Its Cultural and Economic Impact with Lisa L. Gezon
But really the, the real joy in chewing cot comes from these cultural contexts that elevate it to an art and a social and a really really beautiful social experience.
Ever wondered about the intricate role a plant can play in a society? Lisa L. Gezon takes us on a journey through the world of khat in her book 'Drug Effects: Khat in Biocultural and Socioeconomic Perspective'. Khat, a mild psycho-stimulant, has been a staple in Yemeni, Ethiopian, Eritrean, Djiboutian, and Somali cultures for over a thousand years. But it’s more than just a plant; it’s a cultural cornerstone and an economic lifeline for many communities.
In this episode, Gezon, an anthropologist from the University of West Georgia, dives deep into how khat is woven into the social and political fabric of these regions. She doesn’t just stop at the cultural aspects; she explores the economic significance too. Imagine small-scale farmers relying on khat cultivation for their livelihood, while its consumption brings people together in social settings. It's fascinating to see how something as simple as chewing leaves can have such profound implications.
Gezon also tackles the misconceptions around khat, comparing them to the outdated 'reefer madness' hysteria surrounding cannabis. She argues that while khat is a psycho-stimulant, its effects are often exaggerated by so-called experts. This perspective is crucial for anyone interested in understanding how cultural biases can shape drug policies and public opinion. The book also touches on the historical journey of khat from Yemen to Madagascar, highlighting how it has influenced youth culture there.
It’s not just about the plant itself but about the stories and lives intertwined with it. Whether you're curious about cultural anthropology, drug policy, or economic survival strategies, this episode offers a rich tapestry of insights. Tune in to explore how khat is more than just a plant—it’s a social experience, an economic pillar, and a subject of much debate.