For some "civilized" examples of shamans, other than modern-day Western practitioners . . . . how about the mediums of the 19th century? These European practitioners didn't call themselves shamans (not sure the term had been appropriated yet by scientists) . . . but they did act as intermediaries between the spirit world and the mortal world. Instead of "primitive" ritual tools, they used crystal balls, ouija boards, and tarot cards . . . instead of dances and chants, they used seances. How about practitioners in the West who claim they can intercede with angels (spirits of God) and/or devils (spirits of Satan) on behalf of mortals?