Animism, Then and Now
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Abstract
This article explores the persistence and resurgence of animism as a global worldview. First articulated by Edward Tylor in the 19th century, animism is commonly defined as the belief that spiritual beings and impersonal forces influence human affairs. While not a codified religion, it functions as a pervasive, syncretistic system that manifests across traditional religions and increasingly within secular and Western contexts. Drawing on Gailyn Van Rheenen’s definition in Communicating Christ in Animistic Contexts, the discussion highlights four central themes: animism as a belief system, the interaction of beings and forces, the centrality of human concerns, and the quest for power amid fear. The article further examines the challenges animism presents to Christian mission, particularly syncretism and distortions of sin, grace, and conversion. It concludes that animism, both ancient and contemporary, reflects humanity’s universal struggle with fear and self-reliance, to which the gospel offers a transformative alternative.
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