Human beings have engaged in rituals for over forty thousand years [1]. It all began with a ritual burial. Ancient civilizations practiced many exotic rituals in hopes that their Gods would bless them with food or anything they prayed for. Rituals have stayed with us throughout most of our existence. They are practiced by people for many different reasons. Modern civilization has brought about scientific explanations as to why some of us are so dependent on rituals. Rituals are generally perceived to be done for positive reasons which include religion and superstition. Some rituals are outright fatal. Even today, innocent humans are being stoned to death in the name of tradition [2].
There are two distinct types of rituals performed by humans today. The first type of ritual is based solely on superstition or magical powers. Some people may believe in a number that brings them luck. Others might have a favorite article of clothing they wear for a boost in luck. A person might also believe that wishing harm onto someone else might actually make him or her sick. There are many cultural traditions that are also observed around the world. The way a person eats, sleeps, or walks is dictated by his or her cultural tradition. The second type of ritual is based on religion, which has more to do with history and morality. Religious rituals might consist of animal sacrifice, symbolic cleanings or worship.
Shirley Jacksons “The Lottery” depicts a small rural American town holding an annual ‘lottery’ for the sake of the town’s crop. The ‘winner’ of the lottery is stoned to death, which in turn guarantees the town’s food supply for the entire year. Old man Warner, the village’s oldest man, is a traditionalist who views the lottery as a way of life. He becomes disgusted after hearing about other towns cancelling their lottery. He cynically says “Lottery in June, corn be heavy soon.” Anyone else’s view is unacceptable to him because of his survival of...