Psyche's task : A discourse concerning the influence of superstition on the…
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"Psyche's Task: A Discourse Concerning the Influence of Superstition on the Growth of Institutions" by J.G. Frazer is a scholarly examination written in the early 20th century. The work delves into the profound effect that superstition has had on the development and stability of societal institutions such as government, private property, marriage, and the respect for human life. Frazer posits that while superstition is often viewed negatively, it has played a significant
role in reinforcing certain social structures and facilitating cooperation among individuals. The opening of the discourse introduces the theme of superstition's dual nature as both a source of social strength and individual folly. Frazer outlines his intention to argue that superstition has historically provided support for civil institutions, thereby contributing to social order. He introduces four main propositions he intends to explore, each linking superstition to a foundational aspect of society, including governance and property rights. With a blend of historical examples and anthropological observations, he sets the stage for a nuanced discussion that challenges the conventional view of superstition as solely harmful. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
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About this eBook
| Author | Frazer, James George, 1854-1941 |
|---|---|
| LoC No. | 14002025 |
| Title | Psyche's task : A discourse concerning the influence of superstition on the growth of institutions |
| Edition | 2nd edition. |
| Original Publication | London: Macmillan and Co., Limited, 1913. |
| Credits | an anonymous Project Gutenberg volunteer |
| Reading Level | Reading ease score: 64.6 (8th & 9th grade). Neither easy nor difficult to read. |
| Language | English |
| LoC Class | HM: Social sciences: Sociology |
| Subject | Superstition |
| Subject | Prehistoric peoples |
| Subject | Civilization -- History |
| Category | Text |
| eBook-No. | 71985 |
| Release Date | Oct 30, 2023 |
| Copyright | Public domain in the USA. |
| Downloads | 531 downloads in the last 30 days. |
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