Neuerscheinung: Ideas of possession

The idea that an external force can enter an individual and possess their body is prevalent in most cultures across the globe and throughout history. This possession can last for varying lengths of time, and its effects can be considered positive—when a "spirit" provides the individual with powers, abilities, knowledge, or authority—or negative—when the individual suffers and the "spirit" should ideally be cast out, usually through a ritual performed by someone with a designated role.

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