A brief history of cannibalism - Bill Schutt
5,273,174 Views
7,435 Questions Answered
TEDEd Animation
Let’s Begin…
15th century Europeans believed they had hit upon a miracle cure: a remedy for epilepsy, hemorrhage, bruising, nausea and virtually any other medical ailment. It was a brown powder known as “mumia,” and was made by grinding up mummified human flesh. But just how common is human cannibalism, and how do cultures partake in it? Bill Schutt explores the complex history of cannibalism.
This video can't load.
Your network might block YouTube, for example at school. Ask your teacher or an administrator for help, or watch the video at home.
Watch on YouTubeCreate and share a new lesson based on this one.
Additional Resources for you to Explore
Medicinal cannibalism was surprisingly widespread in Europe between the 15th and early 18th centuries, and one form, placentophagy is still practiced today in the United states. But when the word “cannibalism” is mentioned, it’s usually something very different that comes to mind. Why is that so? This Q&A with author Bill Schutt will give students insight into what some might call an obsession.
Interested in learning more about the science and history of human and animal cannibalism? Check out Bill Schutt's book, Cannibalism: A Perfectly Natural History, as he debunks common myths about cannibalism, and explore's its role in biology and anthropology.
Interested in learning more about the science and history of human and animal cannibalism? Check out Bill Schutt's book, Cannibalism: A Perfectly Natural History, as he debunks common myths about cannibalism, and explore's its role in biology and anthropology.
About TED-Ed Animations
TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »
Meet The Creators
- Educator
- Bill Schutt
- Director
- Diego Huacuja
- Narrator
- Addison Anderson
- BASA Line Producer
- Melissa López Ley
- Art Director
- Diego Huacuja
