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Animism: Respecting the Living World
Format: Book
Publication Date: Nov 30, 2005
Publisher: Columbia University Press
Place of Publication: New York
Sources ID: 34681
Notes: xxiv, 248 p. ; 23 cm.
Visibility: Public (group default)
Abstract: (Show)
How have human cultures engaged with and thought about animals, plants, rocks, clouds, and other elements in their natural surroundings? Do animals and other natural objects have a spirit or soul? What is their relationship to humans? In this new study, Graham Harvey explores current and past animistic beliefs and practices of Native Americans, Maori, Aboriginal Australians, and eco-pagans. He considers the varieties of animism found in these cultures as well as their shared desire to live respectfully within larger natural communities. Drawing on his extensive casework, Harvey also considers the linguistic, performative, ecological, and activist implications of these different animisms.