Year: 2013
Type: dissertation
Abstract: The thesis explores the theory and praxis of Odianism in order to articulate the \nfundamentals of a possible philosophical framework underpinning the Odian paradigm of \nreality. It is argued that Odian magical praxis needs to be understood as a discrete \ncategory of experience offering a specific understanding of and a particular route to selfbecoming. \nMagic is a problematic category to define and shares fuzzy boundaries with a number of \nother concepts related to non-ordinary states of consciousness. The thesis seeks initially \nto clarify the specific nature of magic and to contextualise Odianism within the broader \nWestern Mystery Tradition. \nThe main body of the thesis considers the philosophical framework proposed by \ncontemporary Odianism. This narrowing of focus is inevitably limiting, but necessary to \nallow a sufficiently detailed examination of a particular approach to magical praxis. \nThe thesis explores Odian epistemological, ontological and ethical positions. Odian \nmagical praxis is examined in the context of those philosophical perspectives. Particular \nattention is paid to the concept of Odian self-development or Self-becoming. It is argued \nthat Odianism regards non-ordinary consciousness as essential to all forms of magical \npraxis. The thesis concludes by exploring the wider relevance and value of Odian \nperspectives and of magical praxis in general.
Author: Christopher Jon Sharp
Language: English
Subfield: Religious studies
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W286892392