Non-Native Ayahuasca Use

dc.contributor.advisorSeligmann, Linda J.
dc.contributor.authorKosovych, Danylo
dc.creatorKosovych, Danylo
dc.date2010-12-08
dc.date.accessioned2011-05-25T15:28:36Z
dc.date.availableNO_RESTRICTION
dc.date.available2011-05-25T15:28:36Z
dc.date.issued2011-05-25
dc.description.abstractThis 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.urihttps://hdl.handle.net/1920/6351
dc.language.isoen_US
dc.subjectAyahuasca
dc.subjectShamanism
dc.subjectTourism
dc.subjectAmazon
dc.subjectSpirituality
dc.subjectNew Age
dc.titleNon-Native Ayahuasca Use
dc.typeThesis
thesis.degree.disciplineAnthropology
thesis.degree.grantorGeorge Mason University
thesis.degree.levelMaster's
thesis.degree.nameMaster's in Anthropology

Files

Original bundle
Now showing 1 - 1 of 1
Loading...
Thumbnail Image
Name:
Kosovych_thesis_2011.pdf
Size:
727.46 KB
Format:
Adobe Portable Document Format
License bundle
Now showing 1 - 1 of 1
No Thumbnail Available
Name:
license.txt
Size:
1.65 KB
Format:
Item-specific license agreed upon to submission
Description: