02344cam a22003613u 4500 71985 UtSlPG 20260610134650.0 m cr n 260607r20231913utu|||||o|||||||||||||| d 14002025 UtSlPG en iso639-1 HM Frazer, James George, 1854-1941 Psyche's task 2nd edition. Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg, 2023 1 online resource : multiple file formats text txt rdacontent computer c rdamedia online resource cr rdacarrier Release date is 2023-10-30 an anonymous Project Gutenberg volunteer "Psyche's Task: A Discourse Concerning the Influence of Superstition on the Growth of Institutions" by J.G. Frazer is a scholarly examination written in the early 20th century. The work delves into the profound effect that superstition has had on the development and stability of societal institutions such as government, private property, marriage, and the respect for human life. Frazer posits that while superstition is often viewed negatively, it has played a significant role in reinforcing certain social structures and facilitating cooperation among individuals. The opening of the discourse introduces the theme of superstition's dual nature as both a source of social strength and individual folly. Frazer outlines his intention to argue that superstition has historically provided support for civil institutions, thereby contributing to social order. He introduces four main propositions he intends to explore, each linking superstition to a foundational aspect of society, including governance and property rights. With a blend of historical examples and anthropological observations, he sets the stage for a nuanced discussion that challenges the conventional view of superstition as solely harmful. (This is an automatically generated summary.) Originally published: London: Macmillan and Co., Limited, 1913 Superstition Prehistoric peoples Civilization -- History https://archive.org/details/psychestaskdiscop00frazuoft https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/71985 112711 112711