14 Oct 06
Originally posted by PhilodorI've heard of cultures of indians in rainforests who have a shamen. Apparently, (ahem) the shamen is often the schizophrenic (did i spell it right?) of the community. This condition is nurtured within these individuals (often using hallucinagens), so that the shamen (schizophrenic) can share his insights with the rest of the community. None of the other members of the tribe have this ability,unless they are schizophrenic. They see these insights as a rich source of learning and understanding, and as i'm sure you know, the shamen is considered very important, and the spiritual leader.
"When one person suffers from a delusion it is called insanity. When many people suffer from a delusion it is called Religion". Discuss.
What interests me is the way that 'western' cultures tend to give schizophrenics medication specifically to inhibit this 'gift'. If all else fails, they lock them up! I know schizophrenia is often very frightening for the sufferer, and i'm not suggesting we should deprive them of treatment if they want it, but i think its strange how a spiritual leader in one culture is a nutter in another.
14 Oct 06
Originally posted by twiceaknightIt's called community care.
I've heard of cultures of indians in rainforests who have a shamen. Apparently, (ahem) the shamen is often the schizophrenic (did i spell it right?) of the community. This condition is nurtured within these individuals (often using hallucinagens), so that the shamen (schizophrenic) can share his insights with the rest of the community. None of the other ...[text shortened]... it, but i think its strange how a spiritual leader in one culture is a nutter in another.
15 Oct 06
Originally posted by PhilodorIt can be called religion, but generally it's more a case of brainwashing.
"When one person suffers from a delusion it is called insanity. When many people suffer from a delusion it is called Religion". Discuss.
A good example of mass paranoia is the Israeli psyche. They have delusions of persecution.
Don't forget though, that just because someone is paranoid, doesn't mean that other people are not out to get them!
I don't think the Israeli paranoia is to do with religion at all. Religion just boosts and nurtures it.
17 Sep 07
Originally posted by shavixmirSame can be said for those who think a select few are controlling the world and the rich owe everybody else their money.
It can be called religion, but generally it's more a case of brainwashing.
A good example of mass paranoia is the Israeli psyche. They have delusions of persecution.
Don't forget though, that just because someone is paranoid, doesn't mean that other people are not out to get them!
I don't think the Israeli paranoia is to do with religion at all. Religion just boosts and nurtures it.
Just because you're paranoid doesn't mean you're not following somebody.
22 Sep 07
Originally posted by Philodorwell ignoring the fact that you insulted all non-atheist people on the planet, how do you know any religion is delusional?
"When one person suffers from a delusion it is called insanity. When many people suffer from a delusion it is called Religion". Discuss.
