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1. What does Douglas believe you need to understand to study purity?

To study purity, one must understand the place of humans in the universe. One must also understand religious concepts and the origins of purity and pollution.

2. How does the Old Testament relate to purity, in Douglas' opinion?

The Old Testament relates to purity through the concept of contagion. It assumes that pollution is a sin through a mechanical process.

3. What were Frazer's beliefs?

Frazer had preconceived concepts of primitive society. He did not believe that primitive civilizations had ethics and that they used magic.

4. What were Durkheim's beliefs?

Durkheim believed that rituals were symbolic of social processes. He believed that magic was separate from morals and religion. He agreed with Smith about the definition of primitive religion.

5. What was Smith's perception of magic?

Smith perceived that magic could be understood sacredly and secularly. Smith also believed religious rites were valid for primitive societies.

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