Which term refers to the possession of evil powers used to cause harm through psychic means?

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Enhance Your Knowledge for UCF's ANT2410 Exam. Prepare with quiz questions on cultural anthropology, explore humanity's rich tapestry, and increase your chances of excelling at the University of Central Florida.

The term that refers to the possession of evil powers used to cause harm through psychic means is witchcraft. In many cultural contexts, witchcraft is associated with the belief that individuals can harness supernatural forces or powers to manipulate environments, influence events, or harm others, often without any visible physical action. This concept often involves the use of spells, curses, or rituals intended to invoke malignant powers.

Witchcraft is typically distinguished from other practices such as sorcery, which often implies the use of learned magical techniques or formulas, and may not necessarily carry the connotations of malevolence associated with witchcraft. Voodoo and Wiccans refer to specific religious and spiritual traditions and practices. Voodoo incorporates elements from various African religions and often includes healing practices as well, while Wiccans follow a modern pagan religious path that focuses on harmony with nature and may not involve harmful practices. Thus, the associations and implications of witchcraft align closely with the understanding of psychic harm and evil powers, making it the correct choice in this context.