Hughes and Walsh

What struck me first in this second chapter was the description on the sequence of events of how shamans come to be. What is described as the "world tree" by which shamans-to-be ascend reminded me of what is referred to in mythology as the "axis mundi". In many myths, this axis mundi is some form of tree or pillar that also ascends and descends into other worlds; typically an underworld that is less civilized and a higher, upper world which symbolizes progress, advancement, and a deep spirituality. Like the world tree which shamans use to reach certain animals and spirits to connect with, the axis mundi is a significant link to various animals and creatures that represent important ideals and beliefs to the society to which that particular myth is derived from. I suppose the difference here is that in mythology, the character's passage to and from these worlds is supposed to teach the character, and ultimately, the audience a lesson. In Shamanism, this journey not only teaches the proposed shaman his required lessons, enlightened wisdom and knowledge, but also shares with his "audience" (the community) what he has learned by providing his services to benefit, heal and bless the community. In this respect, the lesson is not simply read but experienced.

Upon beginning chapter one of Walsh, I was a little skeptical about the reference to acquiring shamanic experience through brief workshops. "Some people with no prior training can walk into a workshop and, within minutes of listening to shamanic drumming, experience meaningful visions and insights". From the readings thus far, it has been proposed that such experiences (ASC) generally require much training to achieve. Are these "visions and insights" truly something derived from a hidden consciousness that was just suddenly aroused and opened, or are these claimed participants simply so eager to experience the slightest paranormal activity that they construct their own insights based on what they want to see and deem them to be true and received from a deeper consciousness? Surely there are cases where ASC is reached spontaneously- I assumed these were mainly attributed to drug-induced occurrences, not simply from listening to a few minutes of drumming.
Another interesting point to note was that the text claims, " These people [societies where shamanism is practiced] have little agriculture and almost no social classes or political organization". The first two, ag and class system, I get. It's the last reference I have trouble with. Certainly such societies might not have an elaborate, formal governing system with an appointed head to lead and several committees underneath to establish and execute decisions. However, I'm led to believe that these shamans are a form of politicians themselves. They are deemed the all-knowing, community-serving official who people can go to for insight, wisdom, healing, counseling and so on. If the community accepts what the shaman does or says as truth, isn't that a form of control in itself? And isn't that basically what a political organization strives for...control over its people? The text states, "only shamans claimed to have some degree of control over them [spirits] and to be able to command, commune, and intercede with them for the benefits of the tribe". Hopefully this doesn't come across that I advocate anarchy, just thought I'd address something I felt could be taken as contradictory.