Belief Systems: How Do We Explain the Unexplainable?
Belief Systems: How Do We Explain the Unexplainable?
Chapter 11 defines the cross-cultural concept of supernaturalism. The chapter outlines reasons for developing belief systems and the functions these belief systems serve in a culture. The chapter also discusses types of beliefs, supernatural practices, and practitioners. At the completion of this chapter students should be able to:
Define the supernatural world as it is viewed cross-culturally
Discuss why people develop belief systems
Describe the functions of supernatural belief systems and practice
Describe the common types of beliefs found in most cultures, including supernatural beings and forces
Describe supernatural practices and types of practitioners
