Cultural Appropriation in Modern Pagan Religions: Discourse and Praxis

Abstract: This paper examines cultural appropriation in modern Pagan religions. Taking inspiration from Jackson’s 2021 article, “On Cultural Appropriation,” it defines appropriation as one of a spectrum of responses to intercultural contact and change that generally involves a power imbalance between cultures as well as a sense of aggrievement on the part of the colonized culture. It examines both the practice of cultural appropriation and the discourse around it – how contemporary Pagans talk about, discuss, and approach issues of cultural appropriation.

Presenter Bio:  Sabina Magliocco, Ph.D. is Professor of Anthropology and Chair of the interdisciplinary Program in the Study of Religion at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver. She has published on religion, folklore, foodways, festival and witchcraft in Europe and North America, and is a leading authority on the modern Pagan movement.

Affiliation:  University of British Columbia, Vancouver