Gerrets presents findings from his Wellcome Trust-funded project, What’s At Stake in the Fake, investigating how suspicion and (mis)trust shape engagement with pharmaceuticals in coastal Tanzania.

The Language of 'Fake Talk'

Since the 1980s, Swahili speakers have developed a rich vocabulary to discuss authenticity, distinguishing between real and fake, original and copy, or ambiguities in between. This ‘fake talk’ permeates daily life, influencing discussions on water, food, spare parts, love, and news.

Drawing parallels with Franz Boas’ research on Inuit terminology for frozen water, the talk explores the historical emergence and expansion of ‘fake talk’ in coastal Tanzania.

Economic Growth and Regulatory Weakness

The discussion links the rise of ‘fake talk’ to sustained economic growth, increasing demand for imported goods, and weak government enforcement of quality standards—another frequent topic of concern. The talk concludes by examining how ‘fake talk’ shapes perceptions of pharmaceuticals, raising questions about trust and quality in medicine.

After the talk, attendees are invited to continue the conversation over drinks in an informal setting.

The Amsterdam Anthropologies Series is organized by Jorge Nunez, Natashe Lemos Dekker, Rahil Roodsaz and Anouk de Koning.