Geoffrey Cornelius

Divination, Participation and the Cognitive Continuum by Geoffrey Cornelius

Divination, Participation and the Cognitive Continuum by Geoffrey Cornelius

This discussion develops anthropological theory with respect to divination, clarifying the concepts of divinatory address and the unique case of interpretation. Lucien Lévy-Bruhl’s pioneering formulations are considered in the light of the well-known studies on Azande divination by E. E. Evans-Pritchard, and in the relatively recent description by Barbara Tedlock of the ‘cognitive continuum’ at work in divinatory interpretations. It is suggested that Tedlock’s description augments Lévy-Bruhl’s analysis and resolves apparent contradictions and inadequacies, rendering it appropriate to the cross-cultural study of divination.

read more

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Join our mailing list to receive the latest news and updates from The Centre.

You have Successfully Subscribed!