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The Other Becomes Another - Considerations over the Commercialization of Spirituality, healing rituals and neo-shamanism in the Amazon Basin of Peru.

Abstract

This dissertation is concerned with the socio-economic dynamics present in the Peruvian jungle regarding the modern usage of the psychoactive brew ayahuasca. To what extent has one of the most ancient indigenous panaceas become an institutionalized commercial product for foreigners to come and experience a sort of fast-food version of shamanism. And how do the natives and Indian mestizos see the proliferation of this profit orientated and very unique, even extreme, kind of tourism? Supported by Michael Taussig’s concepts of cultural mimesis and Luis Eduardo Luna’s extensive work and practice with ayahuasca I seek to comprehend where are the power relations located in this dialectic between Western travellers and contemporary shamans. What sort of moral issues (similarities/ conflicts) will surface from both sides during the research – considering that ayahuasca tourism is presently one of the country’s international trademarks. Key words: Ayahuasca, Amazonia, Shamanism, Globalization, Mimesis.