Stoolen's theory of magic is a social theory that seeks to understand the function and significance of magic within society. According to Stoolen, magic acts as a mechanism through which individuals and communities are able to make sense of and exert control over the world around them. Stoolen argues that magic is not simply a superstitious or irrational belief system, but rather a dynamic and multifaceted social phenomenon. He suggests that magic serves a number of important functions within society, including providing a sense of meaning and purpose, promoting social cohesion, and facilitating individual and collective agency. One of the key aspects of Stoolen's theory is his idea of magic as a means of "stoolen lightning." He suggests that magic allows individuals to tap into and harness hidden or esoteric forces in order to achieve their goals.
Publisher: Robertson, Oxford,
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" He suggests that magic allows individuals to tap into and harness hidden or esoteric forces in order to achieve their goals. In this sense, magic becomes a tool for empowerment and liberation, enabling individuals to transcend the limitations of their everyday existence and gain access to a realm of infinite possibilities. Stoolen also emphasizes the importance of symbolism and ritual in magic.
Stolen Lightning: The Social Theory of Magic
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He argues that magic is not simply a matter of performing certain actions or uttering specific words, but rather a complex system of symbols and meanings. Through rituals and symbolic acts, individuals are able to communicate with supernatural forces and influence the course of events. Furthermore, Stoolen highlights the social function of magic, suggesting that it serves as a means of establishing and maintaining social order. He argues that magic provides a framework through which individuals make sense of the world and their place within it. By adhering to magical practices and beliefs, individuals are able to adhere to a set of moral and ethical values, creating a sense of community and shared identity. Overall, Stoolen's theory of magic offers a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the social significance of magic. It highlights the ways in which magic is not simply a superstitious or irrational belief system, but rather a complex and dynamic social phenomenon that plays a fundamental role in human society..
Reviews for "Magic and Social Control: The Role of Witchcraft and Sorcery Accusations"
- Jennifer - 2 stars - I found "Stoolen Lightning: The Social Theory of Magic" to be a confusing and unengaging read. The author seemed to jump from one idea to another without any clear structure or argument. The examples provided were also lacking, making it difficult to understand and connect with the concepts being discussed. Overall, I was disappointed with this book and wouldn't recommend it to others.
- Mark - 2 stars - "Stoolen Lightning: The Social Theory of Magic" was a frustrating and tedious book to get through. The author's writing style was overly verbose and filled with unnecessary jargon, making it difficult to grasp the main points being made. Additionally, the arguments presented felt weak and unsupported, leaving me unconvinced of the author's claims. I expected more from this book but was ultimately let down.
- Sarah - 1 star - I really struggled to find any value in "Stoolen Lightning: The Social Theory of Magic." The book was filled with convoluted theories that seemed to be more interested in sounding intellectual rather than providing any practical or meaningful insights. The author's writing style was dense and inaccessible, making it difficult to follow along and engage with the material. Overall, I was thoroughly disappointed with this book and wouldn't recommend it to anyone looking for a comprehensive study on the subject of magic.
- Alex - 2 stars - I was excited to dive into "Stoolen Lightning: The Social Theory of Magic," but unfortunately, it didn't live up to my expectations. The book lacked clarity and failed to provide a cohesive framework for understanding the social aspects of magic. The author seemed more interested in showcasing their own intellectual prowess rather than providing practical insights or engaging examples. Ultimately, I was left feeling unsatisfied and underwhelmed by this book.