35. How the Exorcism Movement Preys on Vulnerable Populations in Brazil
In Brazil, the rise of the exorcism movement where pseudo religious and self-proclaimed charismatic spiritual leaders like Pastor Miguel Santos, exploit vulnerable populations by performing exorcism rituals for financial gain. The movement, promoted heavily on platforms like Instagram and WhatsApp, uses manipulated videos and testimonies to attract followers and strip them from funds with promises of improving their fate.
Individual outcomes
Individuals like 45-year-old Maria in São Paulo are financially and emotionally exploited.
Societal outcomes
Societally, this leads to exploitation of faith, increased instances where vulnerable people are being dragged in pyramid-style schemes, and presents a challenge to established religious practices.
Competences involved in this scenario:
Social systems affected by this scenario:
M9. Ethical considerations
D5. AI tools and disinformation
S8. Potential harm
Religious Organizations
Social Media Platforms
Consumer Protection.