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totemism
DCHP-1 (pre-1967)
Entry from the DCHP-1 (pre-1967)
This entry may contain outdated or offensive information, terms, and examples.
n.
the traditions associated with totems (def. 1).
See: totem(def. 1)
Quotations
1768-82
This idea of destiny, or, if I may be allowed the phrase, "totamism," however strange, is not confined to the Savages . . . many instances might be adduced from history, to prove how strong these impressions have been on minds above the vulgar and unlearned.
1896
They lean to an inferior species of "totemism," although no religious ceremony was ever attached to its acceptance.
1916
The essential element of totemism is "the concept of a ghostly helper or tutelary spirit."