Chapter 2 Discussion Questions

  1. Why did a well-known scholar of comparative religions call our species Homo religiosus?
  1. Discuss the common characteristics of a small-scale subsistence society. Include at least three specific features.
  1. Explain the relationship between modern European colonialism and the demise of ancient religious traditions.
  1. Explain how shamans still remain critical figures in leading their societies in facing the crisis of modernity.
  1. List and briefly discuss the three main uses of totems in indigenous societies.
  1. Discuss some features of the principle of axis mundi.
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