(Re)defining Esotericism
Aries October 10, 2023 Steven Engler, Mark Q. Gardiner
Rather than arguing for a single correct definition of esotericism, the authors examine what definitions themselves are. They contend that rigid definitions requiring necessary and sufficient conditions are problematic, while fluid definitions that aim to clarify or explain are more useful. They propose a stable property cluster definition of esotericism, related to family-resemblance definitions but with explicit justification for the chosen criteria. This definition is offered as a tool for ongoing discussion, not as definitive. The article contrasts meaning realism with meaning antirealism, arguing the latter is more helpful here. This approach may aid in exploring the global spread of Western esotericisms and how esotericism overlaps with similar categories in other cultures.