Anthropology of Consciousness

Abstract

Volume 13, Number 2, September-December 2002, pages 46-60

Anomalous Experiences Reported by Field Anthropologists: Evaluating Theories Regarding Religion

James McClenon, Ph.D.
Department of Social Sciences
Elizabeth City State University
Elizabeth City, North Carolina 27909
e-mail: jmmcclenon@mail.ecsu.edu

Jennifer Nooney
Department of Sociology and Anthropology
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, North Carolina 27695

Content analysis of published accounts of 40 anomalous experiences reported by 16 anthropologists allows qualitative evaluation of elements within evolutionary theories pertaining to religion.  The analysis supports findings from previous studies indicating that certain anomalous experiences have cross-culturally consistent features.  Narrative and structural features within the anthropologists’ accounts coincide with those gathered in northeastern North Carolina and many other areas.  The data also reveal the capacity of these episodes to transform belief, supporting an narratives indicate that anomalous perceptions cause some anthropologists to consider novel theories.  This study supports evolutionary explanations for the origin of religion and provides predictions regarding research directions in anthropology.

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copyright 2004 American Anthropological Association