Shamanism

Name: Shamanism
Brand: Penguin UK
Price: 42.25 AUD
Availability: PreOrder

The Timeless Religion

By: Manvir Singh

Write A Review

Hardcover | 19 August 2025 | Edition Number 1

At a Glance

Format
Hardcover

Dimensions(cm)
0.1 x 0.1 x 0.1

Hardcover

RRP $55.00

$42.25

23%OFF

or 4 interest-free payments of $10.56 with

Available: 19th August 2025

Preorder. Will ship when available.

From a talented young anthropologist and contributor to the New Yorker comes a fascinating investigation into the spiritual practice of shamanism

What are the origins of shamanism and what is its future? Do shamans believe in their powers? What exactly is trance? What can we learn from indigenous healing practices?

In this enlightening book, anthropologist Manvir Singh offers a new explanation for one of the most misunderstood religious traditions. Travelling from Indonesia to the Amazon, living with shamans and observing music, drug use and indigenous curing ceremonies, he journeys into the origins of shamanism. Fundamentally, shamans are specialists who use altered states to engage with unseen realities and provide services like healing and divination. As Singh shows, shamanism's ubiquity stems from its psychological resonance. Its core appeal is transformation- a specialist uses initiations, deprivation and non-ordinary states to seemingly become a different kind of human, one possessed with the superpowers necessary to tame life's uncertainty.

Following a fascinating cast of characters, Singh tells a larger story about the ancient and modern expressions of this timeless tradition. He argues that biomedicine can learn from shamanic practices, yet that psychedelic enthusiasts completely misrepresent history. He also shows that shamanic traditions will forever re-emerge - and that by journeying into humanity's oldest spiritual practice, we come to better understand ourselves, our history and our future.

Shipping

	Standard Shipping	Express Shipping
Metro postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Regional postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Rural postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95

How to return your order

At Booktopia, we offer hassle-free returns in accordance with our returns policy. If you wish to return an item, please get in touch with Booktopia Customer Care.

Additional postage charges may be applicable.