21A 211 Magic Witchcraft And The Spirit World Fall 2003

Why do beliefs in the supernatural persist across different cultures and eras? To understand human behavior, we must examine how different societies define the boundaries between the natural and the spiritual. This written course introduces you to the anthropology of belief, tracing the history of magic, witchcraft, and ritual practices from traditional non-Western societies to modern subcultures. What you'll learn: - Understand foundational anthropological theories of magic, science, and religion. - Analyze the social dynamics and functions of witchcraft accusations in historical Europe and colonial America. - Explore the phenomena of altered states of consciousness, trance, and ritual healing across diverse cultures. - Examine the distinction between sorcery and magic in traditional societies. - Investigate how magical thinking and modern occult practices manifest in contemporary digital spaces. You will begin by mastering essential terminology and classic theoretical frameworks before diving into historical case studies and modern global perspectives. Through structured readings and written analytical exercises, you will develop a nuanced understanding of how belief systems shape human reality. This course is designed for beginners with no prior background in anthropology or sociology. Start reading today to uncover the social and cultural meanings behind the supernatural.