Animism

Animism is a modern term that is used to describe the belief that all living things, objects and places possess a spirit.

What does this mean?

It means that everything around you, such as plants, rocks, natural phenomena, and even geographical landmarks, are considered to be alive. Animism is used as a means to categorise the various belief systems related to spirituality.

Origins

Animism in the modern world was first surveyed in the late 1800’s by Sir Edward Burnett Tylor. Through Tyler’s work animism became associated with primitive cultures and indigenous religions, each one has their own unique beliefs and folklore around animism. He found that most of the world’s major religions are not animistic, though have elements of it. It’s also through Tyler’s work that the term Animism became more mainstream.

Animism itself is believed to date back to the Paleolithic era (also known as the Old Stone Age) and it’s believed to be the foundation of human spiritualism.

Totem

A totem is usually an animal or natural object that is believed to have supernatural powers and holds spiritual significance. This object or animal would be used as a symbol for a tribal community.

Fetish

Not that kind of fetish, in this context a fetish is an object or handmade item that is believed to have supernatural powers or is inhabited by a spirit.

Shamanism

Shamanism can be found in many cultures all around the world, this is a practice that involves working with spirits to help understand the world around us.