Reprint of the original, first published in 1881.

The study of archaeological subjects is increasing in interest. Recent disclosures concerning the early condition and history of the human race have directed much attention to these subjects. Man's oral history crystallized in myths and superstitions reflects much light into a past which written history has not penetrated. Mythology is, therefore, a very important branch of anthropological science. Mythology in its broadest definition includes all pagan religious beliefs, commonly called superstitions, and cannot be confined to collections of fables and traditions, which are the folk-lore of peoples. It is the aim of this book to contribute facts to show the homogeneity of man's religious beliefs. Although the New World is the field of research in the present volume, the rudimentary forms of belief are shown to be the same there as elsewhere, and their systematic development is also the same.

Introduction In the past years there has been a change from negative attitudes in psychology, concerning religion, to the identification of more positive relations between religion and different aspects of mental health. Recent research proves that some forms of religiosity are associated with low levels of depression (McCullough and Larson, 1999), a personal well-being (Koenig, 2001), positive social attitudes (Baton et. al, 1993), a low risk of divorce and an increase in the degree of marital functionality (Mahoney, Pargament, Tarakeshwar and Swank, 2001). Tsang and McCullough (2003) present religiosity as a relevant construct for positive psychology because some forms of religiosity correlate significantly with physical and mental health, tolerance, pro-social behaviour and positive interpersonal relationships.

“Brian Schmisek weaves together contemporary experience and writings with those of Greco-Roman classical antiquity. What a delight to discover the long arc of the quest for meaning in our beleaguered world. I found it comforting, challenging, and insightful. An interesting read in turbulent times.” —Sr. Simone Campbell, SSS, advocate, former leader of Nuns on the Bus, award-winning author of Hunger for Hope “In Signs, Superstitions, and God’s Plan, Brian Schmisek weaves together scripture, the classics, and modern thought in exploring the ways we have sought to give meaning to our lives, from entrails to religious faith to the stars in the sky. This scholarly but accessible book inspires the reader to consider how events in life unfold, and the meaning of her own life.” —Catherine Wolff, author, Beyond: How Humankind Thinks About Heaven “An indispensable resource for all of us who accompany others in developing the habitus of discernment and decision making, particularly theologians, transformational leaders, pastoral ministers, and educators who engage in reflective practice.” —Faustino M. Cruz; dean and professor of practical theology, Fordham University Graduate School of Religion “In Signs, Superstitions, and God’s Plan, Brian Schmisek displays the full panorama of his rich academic scholarship. With impressive credentials in philosophy, classical studies, and theology, he provides his readers with both wide-ranging examples of common and also some not-so-common human attempts to explain aspects of life on earth that baffle our understanding, frustrate our intentions, and leave us grasping for explanations.” —Frank Lazarus, president emeritus, University of Dallas Brian Schmisek is an award-winning author. He has had a distinguished career in Catholic higher education, most recently as provost and dean of faculties at St. Mary’s University of Minnesota. He was also dean at Loyola University Chicago and the University of Dallas.