American Metaphysical Religion and the West
American Metaphysical Religion and the West
This chapter traces the history of American metaphysical religion, including the development and practice of astrology, witchcraft, the occult, alternative therapies, mind cure, New Thought, Christian Science, faith healing, and the New Age. It first considers early experiences of metaphysical religious healing among Anglo Americans before turning to some of the most prominent characters and important movements known to have practiced metaphysical and religious healing arts in the American West and Southwest. Using Catherine Albanese's term “metaphysical religions” as well as her definition of the same, it then examines the narrative assumptions of many white settlers concerning health in relation to Mexican Americans' notions of healing and sickness.
Keywords: astrology, alternative therapies, mind cure, Christian Science, faith healing, religious healing, metaphysical religions, health, Mexican Americans, sickness
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