Harvey

Introduction to Animism

• Definition and Context

  • Animism has gained popularity and is a subject of interdisciplinary research.

  • Engages with Indigenous lifeways and challenges dominant ideologies.

The Relation Between Anthropocentrism, Ecocentrism, and Animism

• Key Debate

  • Animism opposes anthropocentrism but may not align with ecocentrism.

  • Linda Hogan criticizes the term ‘animism’ but acknowledges it attempts to understand Indigenous knowledge.

• Importance of Inter-Species Communication

  • Example: Eagle's flight at a powwow signifies inter-species communication and affirmation of Indigeneity.

Scholarly Engagement and Exploration

• Conversation Dynamics

  • Involves various actors: scholars, activists, and artists.

  • Aims for better understanding of human relationships within a multi-species world.

Animism Defined

• Historical Perspectives

  • Edward Tylor proposed earlier definitions based on beliefs in spirits (Primitive Culture, 1871).

  • Animism seen as an anthropomorphism, projecting human-like traits onto non-humans.

• Alternative Definitions

  • Recent understanding views animism as a community of persons including non-humans deserving respect.

New Animism and Ontological Shifts

• Development of the Concept

  • Emerged from Nurit Bird-David’s 1999 article; emphasizes relational personhood and interconnectedness.

  • Personhood defined by interactions rather than internal traits.

• Relation to Anthropology

  • Strong connections to studies on shamans, embodiment, and materiality.

The Challenge of Ecocentrism

• Distinction from Conservation Models

  • Animism emphasizes immediate relationships, differing from global conservation efforts.

  • Relationship specifics vary by community, which requires context-sensitive actions.

  • Full respect for other beings is fundamental in animism's approach.

The Implications of Animist Philosophy

• Human Relations Within a Larger Community

  • Animism rejects anthropocentrism; humans are one among many types of persons.

  • Challenges modern dualisms of nature and culture.

Critique of Modernity and Required Re-Engagement

• Importance of Diverse Perspectives

  • Scientific discussions should re-situate humans and non-humans ethically.

  • Recognizes differences among various personhoods within the larger community.

Conclusion and Calls for Respectful Relationships

• Respectful Predation and Ethical Consumption

  • Animism encourages respectful interactions with other beings, emphasizing relational ethics.

  • Consumption viewed through the lens of relationships, demanding ethical considerations.

• Lessons from Indigenous Practices

  • Indigenous narratives provide guidance for restoring inter-species respect and addressing ecological crises.

References

• [Numerous references supporting the factual claims and examples within the text, including works by Harvey, Bird-David, and Tylor.]