Magic, Witchcraft, and Religion: An Anthropological Study of the Supernatural
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This is a comparative reader that takes an anthropological approach to the study of religious beliefs, both strange and familiar.
Book Summary
Magic, Witchcraft, and Religion is a comparative anthropology reader that examines supernatural beliefs across cultures. Edited by Arthur C. Lehmann, it collects scholarly essays on topics like shamanism, ritual, and witchcraft, offering students a cross-cultural framework for understanding religious systems. The book balances classic and contemporary perspectives, making it a valuable resource for anthropology and religious studies courses.
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About Magic, Witchcraft, and Religion: An Anthropological Study of the Supernatural
This anthology provides a comprehensive anthropological exploration of supernatural beliefs, from familiar religions to practices often labeled 'strange.' Arthur C. Lehmann curates a diverse set of readings that illustrate how different cultures conceptualize magic, witchcraft, and religion. The collection covers foundational theories and ethnographic case studies, examining topics such as myth, ritual, symbolism, and religious specialists like shamans and priests. By comparing belief systems across societies, the reader highlights both universal patterns and cultural specifics. Designed for undergraduate courses, the book encourages critical thinking about the nature of religion and the methods anthropologists use to study it. Each section includes introductions and discussion questions to support learning.
Who should read Magic, Witchcraft, and Religion: An Anthropological Study of the Supernatural?
This book is ideal for undergraduate students in anthropology, religious studies, and sociology courses focused on comparative religion or the anthropology of religion. It also suits general readers interested in cross-cultural perspectives on supernatural beliefs, magic, and witchcraft. Instructors seeking a ready-made collection of key essays for classroom use will find it particularly useful, as will anyone wanting to understand how anthropologists analyze religious phenomena across different societies.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Offers a diverse collection of ethnographic case studies from various cultures
- ✓ Provides a balanced mix of classic and contemporary anthropological perspectives
- ✓ Includes helpful section introductions and discussion questions for students
- ✓ Covers a broad range of topics, from shamanism to witchcraft to world religions
- ✓ Serves as a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the anthropology of religion
Cons
- ✗ Some essays may be too specialized or dense for introductory readers
- ✗ Lacks a strong unifying theoretical framework across all selections
- ✗ May not include enough non-Western voices or contemporary global perspectives
- ✗ The comparative approach can sometimes oversimplify complex belief systems
- ✗ Limited coverage of certain regions or religious traditions
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Frequently asked questions
Is this book suitable for a beginner in anthropology?
Yes, it is designed for undergraduate courses and includes introductions that help beginners understand key concepts and debates in the anthropology of religion.
Does the book cover both magic and witchcraft in depth?
Yes, it includes dedicated sections and essays on magic and witchcraft, exploring their roles in various societies and their relationship to religion.
What is the anthropological approach used in this reader?
The book takes a comparative, cross-cultural approach, drawing on ethnographic studies and theoretical perspectives to analyze supernatural beliefs and practices.
Are there discussion questions or study aids included?
Yes, each section typically includes an introduction and discussion questions to facilitate classroom use and critical engagement with the readings.
Is this the most recent edition of the book?
The ISBN provided corresponds to a specific edition; check with the publisher or retailer to confirm if a newer edition is available.
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