Analities-deskriptiewe oorsig van die gebruik van die term sinkretisme : “Die definisie van die probleem en die probleem met die definisie”

Abstract

Contemplating syncretism entails defining the concept. Definitions of syncretism are many and diverse. This fact does not only suggest a problem with the definition, but also contributes to the perplexity of the issue. Various strategies may be followed to break the impasse: redefining syncretism, abolishing the term or acceptance of a plurality of perspectives. The article aims to illuminate the complexity of syncretism, as well as attempting to reach a useable definition. It proposes a neutral approach and way of defining this complex concept.