Horizons of Shamanism

Fieldwork among the h-men of rural Yucatan, following the prayers, offerings and rain ceremonies that still shape village life. Photographs and transcribed rituals show Maya practice as it happens.

Bruce Love

A doctoral study built on fieldwork with Mentawai shamans and a cross-cultural survey of beliefs in mystical harm. It asks why the same religious specialists keep appearing in societies that never met.

Manvir Singh

Why shamans turn up in nearly every documented society, and why the role comes with the same costly requirements everywhere. Published with peer commentary from more than thirty researchers and the author reply.

Manvir Singh

Ten studies on shamanic practice among the Manchu, Daur, Yi and other peoples, from archaeology to living ritual. A rare look at how these traditions are being rebuilt after decades of suppression.

Thomas Michael and Feng Qu