mystical participation

a mode of engagement or type of mental activity in which the boundaries between the natural and the spiritual, and between oneself and one’s environment, are either overcome or not established in the first place. The term was introduced by French philosopher and ethnologist Lucien Levy-Bruhl (1857–1939), who held that mystical participation is a characteristic of so-called primitive cultures.

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Psychology term of the day

January 31st 2025

self-protection

n. any strategic behavior designed to avoid losing, either self-esteem or the esteem of others. Self-protection fosters a risk-avoidant orientation and is often contrasted with self-enhancement.