Animism is a belief system that attributes spiritual or supernatural qualities to non-human entities, such as animals, plants, and inanimate objects. In animism, it is believed that everything in the natural world has a soul or spirit, and that these spirits can interact with humans and influence their lives.
The concept of animism is found in many indigenous cultures around the world, including Native American, African, and Australian Aboriginal cultures. In these cultures, animism is often closely tied to traditional practices and rituals, such as shamanism and ancestor worship.
While animism is often associated with traditional or indigenous cultures, it has also been studied by anthropologists and philosophers as a broader concept that can be applied to a range of belief systems. Some scholars argue that animism is a fundamental aspect of human cognition and that it underlies many religious and spiritual beliefs.
Overall, animism is a complex and multifaceted concept that reflects the diversity of human beliefs and cultural practices. While it may be difficult to define or categorize, it remains an important aspect of many cultures and belief systems around the world.