O corpo do xamã e a passagem de Carlos Castaneda

Abstract

In the present dissertation, we reflect about the anthropological practice and the impact of Carlos Castaneda´s work in the relation between science and magic that anthropology (among other things) represents. Castaneda knows the impossibility to explain don Juan´s knowledge, the shaman that is his .informant. (and his master), out of his own terms, and this is why the Carlos Castaneda´s anthropology comes to shake the scientific explanation of magic. Don Juan´s words overflow Castaneda´s anthropologic text and come to us with a strength that has enchanted thousands of readers, inside and outside anthropology. But, what do they say? What is the message that Castaneda passes and that had so much impact when published his books? In the context of a reflection about magic, shamanism, witchcraft or sorcery, we will try to render an academic tribute to whom has changed the anthropological knowledge and practice in the seventies: don Juan Matus.