"there is a need for psychiatrists to be aware of the of the background of their patients. In this regard, the APA itself recognizes that 'magical thinking' can be normal in primitive cultures."
There must be some distinguishing characteristic between what is understood as schizophrenia and what is understood as shamanism. For years scientists have worked to 'science away' the soul, and religions have divided and sub-divided based on scientific discoveries, among other things. Personally, I favor the approach that Descartes took - treat the soul as the property of religion and the body as the property of science. Where, then, does sense-perception fall in? (Sarcasm following) You who can see auras, are you delusional? You who hear people speak from beyond the grave, are you so far gone that we need to label you and 'protect' our society?
"This paradox can almost certainly be extrapolated to western cultures: when claimed paranormal experiences do not cause disruption, they are tolerated at least, by the subculture; however; the presence of such experiences in a person who is manifesting disruptive behavior will not protect him from his culture perceiving that he requires treatment."
A good article, thank you Deacon
