Shamanism and the ancient mind: a cognitive approach to archaeology
Editorial ALTAMIRA PRESS
Espanya peninsular
- Editorial ALTAMIRA PRESS
- ISBN13 9780759101562
- ISBN10 0759101566
- Tipus LLIBRE
- Pàgines 194
- Any Edició 2002
- Idioma Anglès
- Encuadernació Rústica
Shamanism and the ancient mind: a cognitive approach to archaeology
Editorial ALTAMIRA PRESS
Espanya peninsular
Detalls del llibre
Pearson brings a cogent, well-argued case for the understanding of much prehistoric art as shamanistic practice. Using the theoretical premises of cognitive archaeology and a careful examination of rock art worldwide, Pearson is able to dismiss other theories of why ancient peoples produced art-totemism, art-for-art's sake, structuralism, hunting magic. Then examining both ethnographic and neuropsychological evidence, he makes a strong case for the use of shamanistic ritual and hallucinogenic substances as the genesis of much prehistoric art. Bolst ered with examples from contemporary cultures and archaeological sites around the world, Pearson's thesis should be of interest not only to archaeologists, but art historians, psychologists, cultural anthropologist, and the general public.
Author Biography: James L. Pearson has a Ph.D. in archaeology from University of California, Santa Barbara. He became an archaeologist after a long career as a business executive and is now working toward bringing archaeology to the general public.