The social functions of shamanism.
Behav Brain Sci January 1, 2018 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.1017/s0140525x17002199 via PubMed Central
Summary
Shamanism serves important social functions within communities, acting as a means of healing, spiritual guidance, and maintaining cultural cohesion. Shamans often mediate between the human and spirit worlds, addressing individual and collective crises, and reinforcing social norms and values through rituals.
Study at a glance
| Design | theoretical or philosophical paper |
|---|---|
| Key finding | Shamanism performs key social functions such as healing, spiritual mediation, and reinforcing community cohesion. |
Abstract
The social functions of shamanism.