“Enchanted” Science Teaching: Decolonial Studies Based on Macumbas Practices and Sacred Crossroads

Abstract

coloniality is a concept that reflects colonialist power's racist patterns in contemporary context. Drawing on the Epistemology of the Brazilian Macumbas and the Pedagogy of Crossroads, formulated by Luiz Rufino and Luiz Antônio Simas, we advocate for an “enchanted” approach to science teaching: an opportunity to transcend coloniality through science education. Initially, we situate the works of the authors Simas and Rufino within decolonial thought. Subsequently, we explore the underpinnings of the Epistemology of the Brazilian Macumbas Practices and the Pedagogy of Crossroads, emphasizing the notions of “enchantment” and crossroads. We conclude the article by proposing a perspective called “enchanted” teaching of science based on critiquing western-centricity and fostering interculturality.