Regulating exorcisms and similar acts with a focus on the criminal and civil law implications

Abstract

This thesis discusses the Criminal and Civil Law implications of Exorcisms. It looks at other acts such as Fortune Telling and Sorcery. Included in the thesis one also finds an analysis of foreign jurisdictions on these matters. It also looks at case law on these issues. This thesis exposes the fact that these acts are unregulated under Maltese Law, notwithstanding the fact that there are possible Criminal and Civil Law Implications, which are in themselves, not directly reflected in the law. Ultimately this thesis is a mind opening document on the fact that exorcisms and similar acts take place in this day and age, they are unregulated, and this could result in the exploitation of vulnerable persons and it could also result in the rights of individuals being violated. This thesis aims to open up a scenario in which these acts are regulated and through this regulation, the rights of all involved in these acts are protected. The final outcome of the thesis is a proposal for a regulation of these acts.