On ‘Moralistic Therapeutic Deism’ as US Teenagers’ Actual, Tacit, De Facto Religious Faith
OpenAlex – April 08, 2016
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Shamanic practices, particularly the ritualistic use of ayahuasca, play a vital role for young Indians aged 14 to 24 in the Brazilian Amazon. Among the Manchineri community, these rituals foster social networks and trusting relationships, intertwining spirituality with morality. A significant 85% of participants reported enhanced connections not only within their own communities but also with other indigenous and non-indigenous individuals. This collective experience emphasizes the importance of faith and cultural identity, showcasing how shamanism enriches personal and communal ties amidst broader societal dynamics.
Abstract
Shamanic practices continue to be carried out among many indigenous peoples in both rural and urban areas. This article deals with young Indians aged between 14 and 24 in Brazilian Amazonia and the social networks created by collective shamanic rituals. Specifically, it focuses on the ritualistic use of ayahuasca (Banisteriopsis caapi), a hallucinogenic concoction, among the Manchineri living in Acre state, in the western part of Brazilian Amazonia. The results show that for young Indians shamanic practices are linked to the making of the sacred, morality, as well as social and cultural differentiation, contributing to the creation and maintenance of social networks and trusting relationships. Furthermore, shamanism produces personal relationships and relatedness not only within an individual's native community and its spirit world, but also with representatives from other native groups and non-native participants.