What is “animism”?
Animism is a term that anthropologists and historians use to describe a type of belief system in which non-human entities—such as animals, plants, rivers, mountains, and other natural phenomena, as well as inanimate objects—possess a spiritual essence or soul. In other words, it is the belief that all things, living and nonliving, are imbued with spirit or consciousness.
What is “animism”?
The term “animism” comes from the Latin word “anima,” which means “breath, spirit, life.” Anthropologist Sir Edward Tylor first formulated the concept in his 1871 book, “Primitive Culture,” in which he used it to describe the religious beliefs of indigenous peoples worldwide. He considered animism the earliest form of human religious belief and characterized it as a feature of “primitive” societies.
It’s important to note that while the term “animism” is widely used in anthropological and historical literature, its application can be somewhat controversial. Some critics argue that it’s a Western construct that may not accurately represent the beliefs and practices of the cultures it’s meant to describe. Also, many indigenous cultures do not label their spiritual beliefs as “animistic,” but rather view the interconnectedness of all beings as an integral part of their worldview.
Animism can include many beliefs and practices, including ancestor reverence, shamanism, totemism, and the belief in nature spirits. Despite the broad diversity of animistic beliefs, a common thread is the respect and reverence for the interconnectedness of all living things.