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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. After a journey that lasts several days in the jungle with his companions, Harner is taken where?
(a) To a ledge overlooking an enchanted valley.
(b) Beneath a waterfall for a mystical experience.
(c) To the source of the Amazon to meet the highest shaman.
(d) On another journey to experience higher levels of reality.

2. Why might a shaman work in darkness?
(a) To hide from negative entities.
(b) To minimize interference from the sun's rays.
(c) To achieve the most profound visions.
(d) To conceal his or her expressions.

3. In early experiences with the Conibo, Harner hears rushing:
(a) Wind.
(b) Water.
(c) Cattle.
(d) Trains.

4. Which of the following is NOT a purpose for entering a shamanic state of consciousness?
(a) Betrayal.
(b) Retrieving power animals.
(c) Exploration.
(d) Healing illnesses.

5. Why do individuals need the protection of a guardian spirit?
(a) To maintain a strong, steady heartbeat.
(b) To reach adulthood.
(c) To counter chaotic spirits.
(d) They are weak.

Short Answer Questions

1. To learn more about shamanism, what does Harner do?

2. The author shows that all religious traditions share:

3. Why is Harner afraid to take maikua?

4. What do various cultures report noticing the shaman give off when in a shamanic state of consciousness?

5. If SSC stands for shamanic state of consciousness, what does OSC stand for?

Short Essay Questions

1. What are other names the author mentions for guardian spirits, and what cultures call them by these alternate names?

2. Harner emphasizes in Chapter 1 that becoming a shaman involves what?

3. How and why is a shamanic state of consciousness (SSC) achieved?

4. Why does the author find it encouraging for Westerners that not all tribes use drugs in their shamanic practices?

5. Discuss what Harner says about the humility of shamanism?

6. Describe Harner's experience of spiritually going to a cave beneath a waterfall with a Jivaro shaman.

7. Describe the roles of drumming and rattling in a shaman's work.

8. What does the author say shamans feel about what they see in the non-ordinary reality or shamanic state of consciousness (SSC)?

9. What are some of the similarities Harner notes in first-hand shamanic experiences reported by middle-class Americans?

10. How old is shamanism, and what cultures have best preserved this practice?

(see the answer keys)

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