The Spell of the Sensuous: Perception and Language in a More-Than-Human World

The Spell of the Sensuous elaborates animism as belief in the intrinsic aliveness and soul of all elements within the world. The book presents animism not merely as a philosophical stance but as a foundational experience that shapes human engagement with the environment. This perspective counters the dominant modern view, which often regards nonhuman entities as inert or passive and often as mere resources. Animism recognizes the agency and communicative capacity of the entire more-than-human world, including plants, animals, rivers, mountains, and even meteorological phenomena. Abram suggests that this animistic engagement fosters a deeper, reciprocal relationship with nature, encouraging a form of respect and communication that modern society has largely forgotten.

An approach that emphasizes living in accordance with the natural features, ecosystems, and climatic conditions of a particular region, bioregionalism is a concept that Abram references to advocate a mode of living that respects and adapts to the land’s inherent characteristics rather than imposing arbitrary political or economic boundaries. Bioregionalism calls for a deep understanding of and adaptation to local ecological contexts, promoting sustainability and a more meaningful connection to place.