They can be lovable, terrifying, or even mischievous. They can interact with humans and can be pleased or irritated by human actions. Therefore, people must be concerned about them and will likely try to avoid displeasing them. I nitially, animatism and animism may seem to be the same thing. In fact both beliefs are often found in the same culture.
Spirits are individual supernatural beings with their own recognizable traits.
Ancestral Spirits O ne special category of spirit found in the belief system of most cultures consists of the souls or ghosts of ancestors . The spirit portion is generally believed to be freed from the body by death and continues to exist. Ancestral spirits are often seen as retaining an active interest and even membership in their family and society. Like living people, they can have emotions, feelings, and appetites. They have to be treated well to assure their continued good will and assistance to the living.