Non-Native Ayahuasca Use
| dc.contributor.advisor | Seligmann, Linda J. | |
| dc.contributor.author | Kosovych, Danylo | |
| dc.creator | Kosovych, Danylo | |
| dc.date | 2010-12-08 | |
| dc.date.accessioned | 2011-05-25T15:28:36Z | |
| dc.date.available | NO_RESTRICTION | |
| dc.date.available | 2011-05-25T15:28:36Z | |
| dc.date.issued | 2011-05-25 | |
| dc.description.abstract | This thesis explores the use of ayahuasca, a hallucinogenic plant concoction from the Amazon, by people from the English speaking world. This thesis argues that there is no “original” or “typical” use of ayahuasca; it is a dynamic practice that has undergone massive change. In order to show this change, this thesis describes the different roles that shamans have had as a result of colonialism and modernization. Fieldwork was carried out at a healing center in the Peruvian Amazon. The motivations of informants and the effects ayahuasca had on them are compared with previous research on non-native ayahuasca use. The motivations of non-natives for taking ayahuasca are different from native motivations. The two main reasons are a desire for an end to alienation and a resolution of emotional trauma. Nearly all participants reported positive experiences from taking ayahuasca. The ayahuasca intoxication produces a liminal period, in which participants are able to reflect upon the issues affecting them. | |
| dc.identifier.uri | https://hdl.handle.net/1920/6351 | |
| dc.language.iso | en_US | |
| dc.subject | Ayahuasca | |
| dc.subject | Shamanism | |
| dc.subject | Tourism | |
| dc.subject | Amazon | |
| dc.subject | Spirituality | |
| dc.subject | New Age | |
| dc.title | Non-Native Ayahuasca Use | |
| dc.type | Thesis | |
| thesis.degree.discipline | Anthropology | |
| thesis.degree.grantor | George Mason University | |
| thesis.degree.level | Master's | |
| thesis.degree.name | Master's in Anthropology |