Query

James Pasto (3722jpast@UMBSKY.CC.UMB.EDU)
Tue, 31 Oct 1995 16:16:26 EST

Between 1971 and 1975 a series of articles appeard in the journal Africa.
The first was Robin Horton's article "African Conversion." This was followed
by a response from H. Fisher, and then a two-part retort by Horton. The topic
was conversion, but a central element in the discussion was under what
circumstances a high god comes to play a more prominant part in the beliefs
of people, with a corresponding decline in local spirits/ancestors. Would
anyone know if any further studies (books, articles) have been done on this?
My interest is less the issue of conversion and more the emphasis on the high
god. I am also interested in hearing if anyone has any comments on Horton's
thesis. Thanks and regards.

Jim Pasto
Anthropology, UMass Boston