The World We Used to Live In

March 15, 2006
In his final book, Native American scholar and philosopher Deloria (1933 -2005) presents engaging stories describing the exploits and skills of Native American medicine men (and a few women) drawn from historical writings dating from the 17th through the 20th centuries. He perceptively comments on each story from a Native American -insider -s - viewpoint as he explains why he believes that the supernatural feats of medicine men express genuine spiritual power. There is no rational explanation for many of the incidents presented, and Deloria does not see a need to look for one, although he does point out similarities in Native American philosophy, Western philosophy based upon the ideas of Plato, and quantum physics. To him, all demonstrate the presence of an all-pervasive Mind of the universe, which skilled medicine men and women have been accessing for eons. Deloria laments the loss of many ancient Native American spiritual traditions and urges contemporary Indians to value traditional spirituality and wisdom. Well researched, lucidly written, and full of passion, this insightful compilation is an outstanding resource on Native American thought. With an extensive bibliography and endnotes; highly recommended for American Indian studies and religion collections in academic and large public libraries." -Elizabeth Salt, Otterbein Coll. Lib., Westerville, OH"

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