The Rise of Neo-Paganism: From TikTok Witches to Capitol Shaman – A Global Spiritual Awakening?

For 15 years, Longreads has published and curated the best longform writing on the web—and we wouldn’t exist without the support of readers like you. The resurgence of interest in neo-paganism is a fascinating and complex phenomenon, reflecting broader societal shifts and anxieties. From the rise of online witchcraft communities to the unexpected appearance of neo-pagan symbols at political events, this spiritual awakening is challenging traditional views and reshaping our understanding of faith and belief.

Ancient Roots, Modern Manifestations

In 380 AD, the Edict of Thessalonica established Christianity as the official religion of the Roman Empire. The term “pagan,” originally referring to rural inhabitants, became a derogatory label for non-Christians. However, the essence of paganism—animism, polytheism, and a belief in magic—has endured and re-emerged in contemporary forms.

Religious scholar Michael York highlights the defining features of paganism as the conviction that nature is imbued with spirits and the divine; the worship of multiple gods, including female deities; and a belief in the supernatural. Neo-paganism, the focus of this exploration, encompasses modern religious and spiritual practices that draw upon or reimagine pre-Christian European pagan religions. This includes witchcraft, Wicca, Celtic Druidry, and others.

The Growing Influence of Neo-Paganism

The decline of Christianity in the West contrasts with the growth of neo-paganism. Estimates suggest a tripling of US pagans by 2050, and significant increases in the UK. These numbers, however, may underrepresent the actual extent of neo-pagan practices given their often private nature.

The reasons behind this rise are multifaceted. The environmental crisis has heightened the appeal of nature-connected spirituality. Moreover, widespread disillusionment with failing Western institutions—governments, corporations, and churches—has opened the door to alternative beliefs and political viewpoints. Neo-paganism offers a sense of agency and meaning in the face of economic stagnation, climate change, and social inequalities.

The Ambivalence of Neo-Paganism

The significance of this resurgence depends heavily on perspective. Some see in neo-pagan animism the potential for ecological harmony and even utopia; others express concern about the potential for new forms of dogmatism and oppression. Indeed, some utilize neo-paganism to promote ideologies of subjugation and fascist futures rooted in imagined mythic pasts.

The Edward Millar and John Semley essay, using the film The Wicker Man as a lens, deftly illustrates this tension. They showcase how neo-pagan imagery and ideas can be both alluring and horrific, their interpretations shifting with changing social contexts. The film's ambivalence reflects the complexities inherent in neo-paganism itself, highlighting the possibility of both liberation and oppression.

The film, set on a Scottish island, depicts a clash between a conservative Christian policeman and a neo-Celtic community. The essay highlights how The Wicker Man’s themes of manipulation, xenophobia, and the illusion of personal agency resonate deeply with modern anxieties. However, it also emphasizes that neo-paganism doesn’t present a simple dichotomy of good and evil, but a complex spectrum of possibilities.

The Rise of Witchcraft in the Digital Age

Witchcraft, a prominent neo-pagan practice, has experienced a significant surge in popularity, especially through social media platforms like TikTok, where #WitchTok videos have amassed billions of views. The “coven” has become a modern social group, with diverse expressions of witchcraft, from sea witches to influencer witches. This revival is linked to the rise of feminism and declining trust in established institutions, mirroring societal shifts and anxieties.

Journalist Bosker's piece on Juliet Diaz, a modern witch, exemplifies this complex relationship between authenticity and appropriation. Diaz’s entrepreneurial success highlights how neo-pagan practices are finding a place within the contemporary economic system. Bosker effectively balances skepticism with an open-minded approach, acknowledging both the commercialization of witchcraft and its potential for personal empowerment and reclamation of female power.

Re-enchanting the World: A Neo-Pagan Vision for the Future?

Simon's essay argues that the Anthropocene, the current geological age shaped by human impact, is a direct consequence of the de-paganization of civilization. He advocates for a return to pagan polytheism and animism, emphasizing the importance of a renewed connection with nature. His proposal isn't a simple return to a romanticized past but a call for a new spiritual framework that addresses our current crises.

This vision challenges the anthropocentric worldview inherent in traditional Christianity and proposes a more equitable relationship between humanity and the planet. Simon suggests a neo-pagan canon that integrates pagan philosophy with the works of thinkers like Spinoza and Whitman, illustrating how neo-paganism can be more than a nostalgic ideal but a transformative force for positive change.

The Dark Side of the Coin: Neo-Paganism and the Far Right

The appropriation of neo-pagan imagery and ideas by the far right represents a significant concern. Graeme Wood’s profile of Costin Alamariu, known online as “Bronze Age Pervert (BAP),” reveals how neo-pagan symbolism can be twisted to support aggressive, bigoted ideologies. BAP’s influence underscores the danger of misinterpreting and weaponizing ancient beliefs for contemporary political gain.

Phil Jones's work illuminates the historical connections between occultism and the far right, reminding us that the use of neo-pagan symbols in political activism is not a recent phenomenon but a recurring theme. Wood’s disturbing portrait of BAP and his followers reveals how such ideologies can infiltrate mainstream political discourse, underscoring the need for critical awareness and vigilance.

Reconnecting with Nature: A Path Toward Ecological Sustainability?

The conversation between David Abram and Dougald Hine emphasizes the importance of re-enchantment and reconnection with the natural world. They advocate for a slower, more reciprocal way of life, acknowledging the “ambiguous biosphere” and the need for community with non-human organisms. This resonates deeply with the broader anxieties about the environmental crisis and the growing disenchantment with modern, technological society. The duo offer a compelling narrative advocating for a more holistic and interconnected approach to life, drawing inspiration from neo-pagan perspectives to address the complexities of the Anthropocene.

This journey into the world of neo-paganism reveals a spectrum of beliefs and practices, a spiritual palimpsest reflecting the complexities of our time. From the seemingly harmless rituals of online witches to the ominous symbols adopted by the far right, neo-paganism's influence is undeniable, forcing us to confront its diverse manifestations and their implications for the future.

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