Expanding Western Definitions of Shamanism: A Conversation with Stephan Beyer, Stanley Krippner, and Hillary S. Webb

A conversation among three researchers examines the Western world's intellectual and spiritual engagement with shamanic practices, questioning how Western biases and philosophical assumptions have shaped both the study and practice of shamanism. They consider whether the umbrella term "shamanism" remains useful for describing diverse cross-cultural practices, and explore the ethical responsibilities of researchers and spiritual seekers. The discussion focuses on the language used to describe techniques and practitioners, the evolving relationship between researchers and cultural participants, and the implications of merging distinct worldviews.

Study at a glance

Abstract

AbstractWhere has the Western attraction to the study and practice of shamanic techniques brought us? Where might it take us? In what ways have our Western biases and philosophical underpinnings influenced and changed how shamanism is practiced, both in the West and in the traditional cultures out of which they emerged? Is it time to stop using the umbrella term “shamanism” to refer to such diverse cross‐cultural practices? What are our responsibilities, both as researchers and as spiritual seekers? In this conversation, researcher‐authors Stephan Beyer, Stanley Krippner, and Hillary S. Webb discuss their work in field and consider some of the ramifications of the Western world's intellectual and spiritual fascination with shamanic practices. Special attention is paid to the language used to describe these techniques and their practitioners, the developing relationship between researchers and cultural participants, and the ethical implications of merging what are often very distinct worldviews.