The Spirit of Matter: Modernity, Religion, and the Power of Objects - Paperback
The Spirit of Matter: Modernity, Religion, and the Power of Objects - Paperback
Details
by Peter Pels (Author)
A range of meaningful objects--exhibits of human remains or live people, fetishes, objects in a Catholic Museum, exotic photographs, commodities, and computers--demonstrate a subordinate modern consciousness about powerful objects and their 'life'. The Spirit of Matter discusses these objects that move people emotionally but whose existence is often denied by modern wishful thinking of 'mind over matter'. It traces this mindset back to Protestant Christian influences that were secularized in the course of modern and colonial history.
Author Biography
Peter Pels is a Professor of Anthropology of Africa at the University of Leiden. He edited the journal Social Anthropology (2003-2007) and advised the Çatalhöyük excavation project led by Ian Hodder (2005-14). His most recent publication is Museum Temporalities: Time, History and the Future of the Ethnographic Museum (Routledge, 2023) which is co-edited with Wayne Modest.
Materials + Care
We prioritize quality in selecting the materials for our items, choosing premium fabrics and finishings that ensure durability, comfort, and timeless appeal.
Shipping + Returns
We strive to process and ship all orders in a timely manner, working diligently to ensure that your items are on their way to you as soon as possible.