Neoshamanism

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Neoshamanism, or Neo-Shamanism, is a term applied to certain emergent shamanistic philosophies, whether they are a revival of older shamanistic beliefs and traditions or an amalgation of new-age spiritual beliefs. Neoshamanism is sometimes used as a disclaimer or qualifier, where revivalists who are trying to piece back together shattered systems must admit that the system in question no longer exists as a whole due to significant changes in the original culture, often as the result of colonisation, globalisation, or genocide. Neoshamanism is not a single, cohesive belief system, but many such philosophies lumped together. However, certain generalities may be drawn between neoshamans. Most believe in spirits and pursue self-actualization through meditation and sometimes the use of entheogens. Most systems might be described as existing somewhere on the animism/pantheism spectrum.<ref>Karlsson, Thomas (2002). Uthark - Nightside of the Runes. Ouroboros. ISBN 91-974102-1-7.</ref>

Many members of traditional, indignenous cultures and religions are suspicious of neoshamanism, believing it to rely too heavily on cultural appropriation, or that it is an excuse by fraudulent shamans to cover up inconsistencies in their ceremonies.<ref name=Hagan>Hagan, Helene E.. "The Plastic Medicine People Circle", Sonoma County Free Press, September 1992.</ref><ref>Hobson, G. (1978). The Remembered Earth. Red Earth Press.</ref>