Written by: Muskan Singh - 2023005, Grade VIII
Posted on: 04 June, 2019
Various aspects of the relationship between science and shamanism have been cited by modern historians of science and religion, philosophers, theologians, Scientists, and others from various geographical regions and cultures. Even though the ancient and medieval words did not have conceptions resembling the modern understanding of “science and religion”, certain elements of these modern ideas are found throughout history. It was in the 19th century when the phrases “religion and science” or “science and religion” first emerged in the literature. This coincided with the refining of “science” from the studies of “Natural Philosophy” and "religion” as distinct concepts in the last few centuries partly due to the professionalization of the sciences, the protestant reformation, colonization, and globalization. Many people characterize the relationship as either conflict, harmony, complexity or mutual independence.
In Shamanism, psychedelics are taken only in a ceremony under the guidance and supervision of the shaman or the spiritual leader of the community. The shaman would administer these compounds only for very clear circumscribed reasons such as an initiation rite or a healing ceremony to address individuals with severe medical or psychological problems. In the shamanic world, these compounds are never taken for frivolous reasons.
Both science and shamanism are complex social and cultural endeavors that vary across cultures and have changed over time. Most scientific and technical innovations prior to the scientific revolution were achieved by societies organized by religious traditions. Elements of the scientific method were pioneered by ancient pagan, Islamic and Christian scholars. Therefore, I believe that there is a relation between shamanism and science.
