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tinido's review
4.0
To write a useful introduction into magic as an historical and contemporary phenomenon and the different and hotly debated anthropological and historical concepts of magic on just 100 (small) pages borders itself on magic. But Owen Davies did it, and I learned a lot from this very short introduction, especially on the fraught history of magic as an anthropological concept, and how practicing magic is a very common thing, even nowadays. I found his language highly accessible, the recommendation for further reading are very helpful. Minor quibble: The book could use an update relating to the connections between anthropology and archaeology as sciences intimately connected to European imperialism, and how it still forms our conception of magic.
amasurya's review
3.0
A lot of information is packed into this very tiny book. But it was not a tedious read because the author examines magic across specific paradigms that are comprehensively scoped - so you get a fairly good insight into how magic is interpreted in anthropological, historical, psychological, and contemporary domains. Would have been great if more of an attempt was made to justify these lenses and make deeper analytical comments. I found it to be a very descriptive, content-packed read with little room for critical reflection from the author.
Takeaways -
* 'magic as a retardant to progress and modernity' and the implications this has had on the transition of certain religions to be accepted under more contemporary banners (as well as the puritanical tensions this brought about).
* 'magic as a psychological pressure valve' for people who have been excluded from 'high culture' and struggle with existential crises over their externally imposed disconnect from mainstream religion.
* religion and cultural norms setting the boundaries for the practice of magic; syncretic relationships.
Generally interesting. Learned new things.
Takeaways -
* 'magic as a retardant to progress and modernity' and the implications this has had on the transition of certain religions to be accepted under more contemporary banners (as well as the puritanical tensions this brought about).
* 'magic as a psychological pressure valve' for people who have been excluded from 'high culture' and struggle with existential crises over their externally imposed disconnect from mainstream religion.
* religion and cultural norms setting the boundaries for the practice of magic; syncretic relationships.
Generally interesting. Learned new things.
lexiecon's review against another edition
challenging
informative
reflective
medium-paced
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