Animism and Science

Bibliographic Data

ID3194758
AuthorsHans Van Eyghen (0000-0002-2971-554X, Tilburg University, corresponding author)
Year2023
Volume14
Issue5
Pages653
Publication date2023-05-15
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueReligions (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2077-1444 • E-ISSN: 2077-1444
PublisherMDPI AG (PUBLISHER • IT)
DOI10.3390/rel14050653
OpenAlexW4376644534
LanguageEN
Citations received2
References cited19

I discuss whether animism, the worldview that (some) objects, plants and animals are capable of communication, rational reflection and intentional action, is in conflict with contemporary science. I distinguish two conflicts. The first points to conflicting claims regarding the abilities of objects, plants and animals made by scientists and animists (agential vs. non-agential). I argue that the alleged conflict can be diffused by noting that science and animism advance different ways of looking at the world. The second conflict notes discrepancies between how animists treat nature and all therein (with respect and reverence) and how science does (instrumentalized). I argue that this conflict is more difficult, if not impossible, to overcome

Animism · Epistemology · Reverence · Sociology · Animal and Plant Science Education · Anthropology · Evolution and Science Education · Evolutionary Game Theory and Cooperation · Philosophy

Tools

Open DOIOpen Access