Perspectives on Religious Syncretism By Griffin Willins A Battle of Good and Evil The study of religious syncretism is a divisive one. Scholars and anthropologists have long debated the ethics of the term. Some scholars believe it to describe a natural blending of different cultural ideas and practices. Others feel it describes the violation and suppression of existing religious practices, where peoples were forced to pick one system over another. There is no victor in this debate. Both sides make a valid case for whether the term should or shouldn't still apply in scholarly anthropological contexts . For some cultures, such as those found in the Americas, syncretism is an overtly positive concept. It describes their acceptance of faiths and practices both indigenous and foreign to the region. This is the case with the Quechua peoples of the Andes who practice a mixture of local traditions infused with Spanish-wrought Catholicism. For some, such as in certain African
By relating syncretism to history and other modern topics it makes it easier to understand the idea of syncretism. Thank you for your post!
ReplyDeletei think it highlights the importance for anthropology and making knowledge of unique cultures more accessible in order to preserve history (hopefully). I know in Belize, there is vast Mayan ruins which remain unexcavated simply because there isn't funds or priority to explore them... who knows what could be under there!?
ReplyDeleteIt is really interesting to see how over time the exporting of Western values and cultures increased. It's true what they say: winners write history. When you're a dominant force, you're ideals and culture mix and alter what used to be. I'm sure there has been resistance to Western encroachment, but it seems hard to stave off. Interesting read for sure!
ReplyDeleteSpot on presentation, And records do show, it is true that Western and European nations showed power by control and wealth. great read and love the image choice!
ReplyDeleteYour post was great, as it allowed me to better understand syncretism! Also, great picture choices!
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