Alternative Rationalities and Esoteric Practices from a Global Perspective

Abstract This text provides a translated, revised and curtailed version of the original research proposal that led to the foundation of the Center for Advanced Studies ‘Alternative Rationalities and Esoteric Practices from a Global Perspective’ at Friedrich- AlexanderUniversität Erlangen-Nürnberg ( CAS-E ). The text discusses the pitfalls of the notion of ‘esotericism’ and provides a working definition of ‘esoteric practices.’ CAS-E ’s praxeological turn is portrayed as well as the notion of ‘alternative rationalities’: processes of rationalization function as a conduit between ideas and actions. CAS-E engages in large-scale, homologous as well as analogous, cross-cultural comparison, while at the same time acknowledging the shortcomings of older comparative research. Four long-term goals of CAS-E ’s work are presented: mapping global esoteric practices; systematic comparison and pattern identification; developing a nuanced language of typological analysis; and formulating a global, multifactorial cultural theory of esoteric practices, with particular emphasis on the question of their resilience. Finally, the text provides CAS-E ’s comparative question matrix.