menneskekonsum

Menneskekonsum is a Danish term that translates to "human consumption." It refers to the act of consuming human flesh, also known as cannibalism. This practice has a long and complex history, appearing in various cultures throughout different periods.

The reasons behind menneskekonsum are diverse and can be categorized into several types. Survival cannibalism occurs when individuals resort to eating human flesh out of extreme starvation, with no other food sources available. This has been documented in situations of famine or during periods of extreme hardship, such as shipwrecks or sieges.

Ritualistic cannibalism, on the other hand, is driven by cultural or religious beliefs. In some societies, consuming parts of a deceased individual was believed to transfer their strength, knowledge, or spirit to the living. This could be a way to honor the dead or to gain power. Forensic cannibalism is another term used to describe the consumption of human flesh for medicinal purposes, although this is less commonly documented.

Menneskekonsum is widely considered a taboo in most modern societies and is illegal in virtually all countries. While historical accounts and anthropological studies document its existence, it is not a widespread practice today. The term itself, menneskekonsum, specifically highlights the act of consumption, differentiating it from other forms of interaction with human remains.