Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This paper develops a quadripartite panpsychist theory of shamanism(s). This fourpart framework revives and combines four theories: (i) mystical constructivism, (ii) role-taking theory, and (iii) mental imagery cultivation as a cultural practice founded upon (iv) a panpsychist philosophy of ultimate reality. I argue that this quadripartite model allows for the recognition of something ‘real’ in shamanic altered states of mind whilst maintaining epistemological sensitivity to local differences. Spirit is just another word for mind, and shamanism is an exploration of consciousness by means of consciousness. Keywords: shamanism, panpsychism, altered states of consciousness, role-taking theory, universalism vs. particularism
DOI: 10.30676/jfas.148437
Author: Olof Ohlson
Institutions: Universidade Federal de São Carlos, University of Gothenburg
Language: English
Subfield: Philosophy
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
Award: G6438247056
OpenAlex ID: W7148307133
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