Michael Harner, FSS Founder

The Foundation for Shamanic Studies is dedicated to the preservation, study, and teaching of shamanic knowledge for the welfare of the Planet and its inhabitants.

Internationally renowned anthropologist Michael Harner founded the FSS in 1985 to foster shamanism worldwide. Dr. Harner has been recognized as the pioneer in the revival of shamanism since 1961 when he chose to immerse himself in tribal spiritual traditions and accept initiation in Upper Amazonian shamanism rather than restrict his study to more traditional academic techniques.

Fortunately for everyone interested in developing their own shamanic potentiality, Michael Harner continued developing and then teaching his personal practice of shamanism and shamanic healing when he returned to the United States.

Now, people everywhere can benefit from his groundbreaking work in shamanic journeying through the FSS, which offers its international learners rigorous courses in Core Shamanism— universal or near-universal principles and practices of shamanism not bound to any specific cultural group or perspective.

FSS also offers an Indigenous Shamanisms series, to explore the ancient knowledge of specific cultures with carefully selected teachers. It is our hope that this study will lead to greater respect for the knowledge of indigenous peoples and ultimately help to preserve and dignify this wisdom for future generations.

In the new Shamanic Innovations series, interested learners have the opportunity to study the practical uses of shamanism in everyday life.