Shamanism

Romanian philosopher and history of religion scholar Mircea Eliade's early study of shamanism continues to be a trusted source for scholarly studies of the spiritual practice. Eliade uses a three-pronged approach here, using anthropology, sociology, and psychology to interpret the role of the shaman, or the socially-recognized healer who falls into a trancelike state and is guided by otherworldly spirits to experience revelation or ecstasy. Eliade begins with a study of ancient practices of shamanism in Siberia and Central Asia and then broadens his study to South America and other continents. Copyright (C) Muze Inc. 2005. For personal use only. All rights reserved.