Redefining Animism: History and Perspectives

This chapter explores the historical evolution of the term 'animism' and its implications for Indigenous cultures, critiquing early anthropological definitions that dismissed it as primitive. The dialogue advocates for a relational understanding that respects Indigenous epistemologies while addressing the complexities of religious development throughout history. It challenges conventional definitions of religion, emphasizing communal practices and the interconnectedness between humans and the larger-than-human world.