Contemporary Esotericism — Occult Philosophy

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🕯️ Occult Philosophy

Contemporary Esotericism

Name: Contemporary Esotericism
Price: 77.99 USD
Availability: InStock
ISBN: 9781138856110

✍️ Egil Asprem, Kennet Granholm

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4.6

(1 review)

$77.99

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📚 WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT

This insightful volume delves into the often-overlooked landscape of modern Western esotericism, charting its evolution from the mid-20th century to the present day. Through a rigorous blend of historical analysis and social scientific perspectives, the authors illuminate how esoteric traditions adapt to contemporary life. It explores the interplay between ancient wisdom and new media, examines esotericism's pervasive influence across diverse cultural spheres, and discusses its increasing acceptance in both academic discourse and mainstream society. A crucial examination for understanding today's spiritual currents.

Asprem, Egil; , Granholm, Kennet

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Occult Philosophy

🏛 Routledge 📅 2014 📖 480 pages 📔 Paperback ISBN: 9781138856110

Fun Fact

Asprem and Granholm deliver an essential, groundbreaking examination of esotericism's modern landscape. Its academic rigor and broad scope make it indispensable for scholars and serious students, filling a significant void in the literature. While not for those seeking an entry-level introduction or practical applications, its multidisciplinary approach masterfully unravels contemporary spiritual currents. A foundational text for understanding esotericism today.

📝 Description: Contemporary Esotericism

The study of contemporary esoteric discourse has hitherto been a largely neglected part of the new academic field of Western esotericism. Contemporary Esotericism provides a broad overview and assessment of the complex world of Western esoteric thought today. Combining historiographical analysis with theories and methodologies from the social sciences, the volume explores new problems and offers new possibilities for the study of esoterica. Contemporary Esotericism studies the period since the 1950s but focuses on the last two decades. The wide range of essays are divided into four thematic sections: the intricacies of esoteric appeals to tradition; the role of popular culture, modern communication technologies, and new media in contemporary esotericism; the impact and influence of esotericism on both religious and secular arenas; and the recent 'de-marginalization' of the esoteric in both scholarship and society.

💎 Expert review

“

💎

Esoterica Books editorial team

Occult literature desk

Asprem and Granholm deliver a dense, analytical survey that prioritizes historical and social scientific perspectives over narrative flair. While intellectually robust, this volume is decidedly unsuitable for casual readers seeking practical magical techniques or inspirational spiritual advice. It may also disappoint those looking for a chronological history of specific orders, as it focuses on broader theoretical adaptations. However, for academics and dedicated researchers analyzing the sociological impact of esotericism in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, it stands as a crucial, albeit demanding, text that clarifies the field's complex trajectory.

✓ EDITOR'S REVIEW

📖 Why choose it

📖

Why this book is worth reading

Scholars, historians of religion, and serious students of the occult will find this volume indispensable for its rigorous examination of how esoteric traditions have evolved in the modern era. It offers a unique lens through which to understand the interplay between ancient wisdom and new media, revealing how these practices permeate diverse cultural spheres. By tracing the shift from marginal mysticism to mainstream academic acceptance, it provides essential context for anyone seeking to grasp the hidden currents shaping today's spiritual landscape. This is not a practical guide but a vital intellectual map for those wishing to comprehend the structural and social forces defining contemporary esotericism.

⭐ Reader reviews

The starting rating comes from the team Esoterica Books —

⭐ Esoterica editorial review Editorial rating 4.6/5

★★★★★

For those fascinated by the evolution of spiritual thought in the digital age, curious about the academic study of mysticism, or seeking to understand esotericism's contemporary cultural impact, this collection offers essential insights. Ideal for scholars and serious students of modern…

Reader rating

4.6

Based on 1 reviews

Esoterica Books editorial team

Asprem and Granholm deliver a dense, analytical survey that prioritizes historical and social scientific perspectives over narrative flair. While intellectually robust, this volume is decidedly unsuitable for casual readers seeking practical magical techniques or inspirational spiritual advice. It may also disappoint those looking for a chronological history of specific orders, as it focuses on broader theoretical adaptations. However, for academics and dedicated researchers analyzing the sociological impact of esotericism in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, it stands as a crucial, albeit demanding, text that clarifies the field's complex trajectory.

❓ Frequently asked questions

This book primarily examines Western esotericism from the mid-20th century onwards, with a particular emphasis on developments and trends that have emerged over the last two decades, reflecting its current manifestations and influences.

Absolutely not. This is an academic study employing historiographical and social scientific methodologies to analyze contemporary esoteric discourse. It offers scholarly insights into beliefs and practices, rather than providing instruction for personal spiritual development or magical work.

📖 Who should read this

🎯 Key themes and symbolism

Engaging Ancient Lineages

This book dissects how contemporary esoteric movements navigate their historical roots. It explores how modern practitioners invoke and interpret long-standing traditions, examining the tension between preserving ancient wisdom and adapting it to 21st-century demands. Tradition emerges as both a foundational element and a fluid, evolving concept.

Digital Mysticism's Evolution

The book critically analyzes the profound impact of popular culture and modern communication technologies on esoteric practices. It investigates how digital platforms and mainstream media shape the dissemination, perception, and evolution of esoteric ideas. This explores the interplay between ancient spiritual concepts and their manifestation in a technologically driven world.

Cultural Permeation & Acceptance

This section explores esotericism's pervasive influence across religious and secular spheres, demonstrating its increasing visibility. It examines how esoteric ideas transcend traditional boundaries, affecting spiritual movements and popular culture. The book also discusses the 'de-marginalization' of esoteric studies, highlighting its growing legitimacy within academic and societal discourse.

📜 Historical context

Emerging from the burgeoning academic field of Western Esotericism, this work distinguishes itself by focusing on the often-overlooked post-1950s period, especially the last two decades. While much scholarship has traditionally centered on historical esoteric movements, this volume bravely ventures into the contemporary, challenging established perspectives and expanding the field's scope into the modern world.

📚 Glossary

Western Esotericism
Historiographical Analysis
De-marginalization

📔 Questions to reflect on

How has your perception of 'esotericism' changed after considering its modern forms and cultural impact, as presented in this collection?
Reflect on how popular culture or digital media might have shaped your own understanding or encounter with esoteric ideas. Provide specific examples.
In what ways do you see esoteric thought influencing mainstream society today, beyond obvious spiritual movements? Consider areas like wellness, art, or social trends.