The book has helped to offer a new perspective on western culture, and even a glimpse at cultures worldwide. I think one of the most valuable passages of the book describes American society under the guise of a tribe, under the pseudonym Nacirema. The objective look at modern society shines a new light on the entirety of western culture, and demonstrates just how much is done religiously in our lives, as well as the acts of magic we participate in daily. The matter of witchcraft, also discussed in depth, is the epitome of the conflict between religion and magic. Besides the addition of new information, the book helps provide a more interesting twist on common topics and information that should prove to be of immense use in my paper.
Thursday, April 2, 2015
Magic, Witchcraft, and Religion
Magic, Witchcraft, and Religion, written by Arthur C. Lehmann and James E. Myers, is an in depth study on the rituals and supernatural occurrences in which humans have engaged, and one that is made on the basis of anthropology. It connects certain occurrences between religions and cultures world wide: such occurrences may include healing through faith and relying on the divine to solve problems. Other phenomenon include the opposite, being rituals created by man to tap into mystical forces to provide solutions to the same problems. The book manages to describe how puzzlingly similar these processes are, involving certain chants or words used to invoke a higher power, and special substances or objects imbued with power. Thaumaturgy is a theme addressed several times throughout the book from both sides of the matter. Despite the fact that the book covers cultures worldwide, there are many references to western culture and its associations. One such association has an underlying current of science, just as Spellbound contained its own addition of science. Analysis of the text reveals the presence of science in many occurrences of magic. There is even a description of the American culture written from the view point of a tribal group, pointing out just how much regular activities follow the pattern lay down by religion and magic.
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This sounds like quite an interesting book on an intriguing topic, Jacob. It seems like you have a very good idea of where you are going to use the information in your paper. I am looking forward to getting to read your paper. It sounds like it will be quite thrilling.
ReplyDeleteJake, your topic is fascinating! I am excited to be in your group and read the paper as it comes together. I like the way you described how witchcraft is the "epitome of the conflict between religion and magic." To me, just that one detail is something you could dive into and really explore. I'm not sure what direction your paper is going in, but I'm sure it will be great!
ReplyDeleteJacob,
ReplyDeleteI'm very interested in where you are taking your research. I've heard of the term Nacirema - we read a paper on it in Sociology. It's interesting seeing how rituals trickle down into culture, even very advanced cultures. I'm curious to know if you plan on focusing in on one culture specifically - or if that culture is that of America. Also, with such a focus on sciences - maybe incorporating the use of medicine and the practices of the native peoples that would be like a science would be interesting to check out (if that makes sense). Good luck on your paper!
Jacob,
ReplyDeleteI think this book has the perfect amounts of similarity and unlikeness to your first book. I like that this book also touches up on the importance of science in magic, and how they are intertwined together. A focus on western culture is nice too because of the significance that we put on scientific fact. I think showing a linear progression of both science and magic could add a nice factor to your paper. It should be very good based on the steps you are taking.
Jacob,
ReplyDeleteI think this book has the perfect amounts of similarity and unlikeness to your first book. I like that this book also touches up on the importance of science in magic, and how they are intertwined together. A focus on western culture is nice too because of the significance that we put on scientific fact. I think showing a linear progression of both science and magic could add a nice factor to your paper. It should be very good based on the steps you are taking.