There are not few who believe in fortune-telling. Many people turn to fortune-tellers regarding their personal life, future, or decisions. However, this is a belief without scientific basis and leads to the deception of people. In this case, could fines be applied in the future in Azerbaijan to those who go to fortune-tellers?
Medianews.az in a statement, sociologist Elchin Bayramli first emphasized that the situation in this area is becoming increasingly complicated, and a rise has been observed recently in the number of people turning to fortune-tellers:
“This problem has always existed, and after the collapse of the Soviet Union with its strict ideological frameworks, the process has expanded widely. Due to low education levels, unemployment, ignorance, and the deliberate misrepresentation of religion and sacred books to people, interest and trust in fortune-tellers among people have increased.”
The sociologist stressed that some opportunists benefiting from the situation establish personal businesses and deceive millions of people:
“Sometimes, people are harmed not only by fortune-telling but also by witchcraft. This causes many conflicts. It is a serious problem in terms of moral and social degradation as well as legal aspects. The activities of such individuals should be prohibited and severe penalties applied. At the same time, those who turn to fortune-tellers and witches and use their services should also be held accountable. As indicated in the law, the attempt to cause harm is also a crime. In other words, trying to harm others through witchcraft should be considered a crime as well.”
E. Bayramli also stated that enlightenment plays an important role in solving the problem:
“It is necessary to teach people true knowledge and accurate religious information, to provide a proper interpretation of sacred books. In this field, intellectuals, media representatives, writers, journalists, and religious figures should work towards enlightening society.
Witchcraft and fortune-telling are more widespread in countries with low literacy levels. Unfortunately, such cases are also increasing in our country. So, the problem should be solved in two directions: the state must take legal and administrative measures while the main forces of society must strengthen the work of enlightenment.”
Oguz Ayvaz,
Medianews.az
