Theoretical, Terminological, and Taxonomic Trouble in the Academic Study of Contemporary Paganism: A Case for Reform

Authors

  • Ethan Doyle White University College London

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1558/pome.v18i1.28457

Keywords:

Contemporary Paganism, Neo-Paganism, Pagan Studies, Paganism, Terminology

Abstract

As the academic study of contemporary Paganism approaches its fourth decade, it faces a variety of theoretical, methodological, and terminological challenges, some of which have faced little or no exploration to date. Here, an attempt to tackle some of the most significant will be made. First, I will examine both how academics and practicing Pagans have defined “contemporary Paganism,” criticizing many such definitions and arguing for the scholarly adoption of a classificatory approach rooted in Wittgenstein’s “family resemblance” paradigm. Second, I shall argue for the need of a much clearer definition of what “Pagan studies” actually studies, before challenging the utility of the term “Pagan studies” itself for being too closely associated with Pagan community activism. Third, I present my argument as to why our field is in such dire need of serious reform in order to establish much needed academic respectability.

Author Biography

  • Ethan Doyle White, University College London
    A doctoral candidate at University College London, Ethan Doyle White is an archaeologist and historian of religion with a strong interest in Pagan studies.

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Published

2016-08-09

Issue

Section

Articles

How to Cite

Doyle White, E. (2016). Theoretical, Terminological, and Taxonomic Trouble in the Academic Study of Contemporary Paganism: A Case for Reform. Pomegranate, 18(1), 31-59. https://doi.org/10.1558/pome.v18i1.28457