The Visionary Experience in North American Shamanism

Many traditional Native American cultures in North America socially sanction visionary experiences in individuals. The use of visionary experiences in these cultures, especially in shamanism, is discussed. The process of using induction techniques to acquire shamanic power may over time adversely affect the shaman's ability.

Study at a glance

Abstract

One unique feature found in many of the traditional Native American cultures in North America is that they socially sanction visionary experiences in individuals. How the visionary experience is used in these cultures and, in particular, in shamanism, is discussed. It is suggested that the process of using induction techniques for visionary experiences, in order to acquire shamanic power, may over time have an adverse affect on the shaman's ability.