Kuru Culture
Kuru Culture refers to the practices and beliefs of the Fore people of Papua New Guinea, particularly related to their traditional rituals and social structures. This culture is notably linked to the practice of funerary cannibalism, where the deceased's body was consumed as a sign of respect and mourning. This practice was deeply rooted in their spiritual beliefs and community ties.
The consumption of human flesh led to the spread of Kuru, a neurodegenerative disease caused by prions. This disease primarily affected women and children, who were more involved in the cannibalistic rituals. As awareness of Kuru grew, the practice was eventually abandoned, leading to significant changes in the Fore people's cultural practices.