The Kaliai and Bainings Spirit-Possession Traditions in New Britain

Record summary

Ethnographic studies of New Britain document spirit beliefs, initiation, ritual performance, possession-like states, and changing relations between customary practice and Christianity. These materials can help compare visionary and mediumistic accounts without assuming that altered behavior has one universal explanation. The lead refers to a body of named regional studies rather than a single incident, so researchers must identify the particular Kaliai or Baining publication, community, and ceremony. Accounts should preserve local categories and the distinction between observation and interpretation.