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Animism

Definition

The belief that objects, places, and creatures all possess a distinct spiritual essence. It's one of the oldest forms of religion.

Related terms

Shamanism: A religious practice that involves a practitioner (a shaman) reaching altered states of consciousness to interact with the spirit world. It shares similarities with animism in terms of belief in spirits.

Polytheism: The worship or belief in multiple deities usually assembled into a pantheon of gods and goddesses. Like animism, it is an ancient form of religion but focuses on multiple gods rather than spirits within objects.

Totemism: A system of belief in which humans are said to have kinship or a mystical relationship with a spirit-being such as an animal or plant. This concept often coexists with animistic beliefs.

"Animism" appears in:

Subjects (2)

  • AP Psychology

  • Intro to Sociology

Study guides (1)

  • AP World History: Modern - 1.4 State Building in the Americas from 1200-1450

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About Us

About Fiveable

Blog

Careers

Code of Conduct

Terms of Use

Privacy Policy

CCPA Privacy Policy

Resources

Cram Mode

AP Score Calculators

Study Guides

Practice Quizzes

Glossary

Cram Events

Merch Shop

Crisis Text Line

Help Center

© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.