In conclusion, I suggest strategies looking towards reciprocal benefit, such as forums for meeting and negotiating where communication and education are otherwise lacking. A more contextualised approach that is socially and politically sensitive, is essential. In contrast, I point to great diversity in neo-shamanism and argue that exploring this variety reveals both positive and negative aspects. Chaco Canyon in New Mexico is used as a case example of a disputed archaeological site.Ĭritics perceive neo-shamanism in stereotypical ways it is seen as a monolithic entity and dismissed. Finally, I examine neo-shamanic appropriations of indigenous shamanisms, particularly with regard to Native America. The preservation ethic of the heritage industry is contrasted with the neo-shamanic view that perceives ancient monuments to be spiritually alive. Neo-shamanic interactions with archaeological sites, particularly Stonehenge and Avebury are also discussed. I assess these practices in terms of their authenticity and value to archaeologists and historians. I then critically compare a neo-shamanic case example of Celtic neo-shamanism with Heathen neo-shamanism, two traditions that reconstruct and revive ancient north European pagan religions. ![]() I scrutinise main figures in neo-shamanism and specific examples of neo-shamanic practice, on the basis of their universalising, psychologising and romanticising of shamanism. In presenting an ethnography of neo-shamanism, I first discuss how our perceptions of shamanism are heavily influenced by neo-shamanism. An archaeology of shamanism therefore begins not with shamanism in the past, but with neo-shamanism in the present. I use such theoretical and methodological approaches as alternative archaeology and experiential anthropology, which coalesce, into what I call an 'Autoarchaeology': to understand the past it is imperative we explicitly consider, and take into account, our own sociopolitical locations and motivations. In this thesis I explore archaeological and anthropological perspectives on, and more importantly, attitudes towards, 'Neo-shamanism'. P>'Shamanism' is an anthropologically constructed concept to explain a socio-religious phenomenon in many non-Western societies that enables community healing via interactions with spirits.
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