Final answer:
Trobriand ideas about 'other minds' concern how religious and magical rituals function to meet psychological needs by providing an illusion of control over uncertain situations, reflecting the complex cultural systems that address social and psychological aspects in Trobriand society.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Trobriand ideas about 'other minds,' influence, and control stem from the anthropological fieldwork conducted by Bronislaw Malinowski in the early 20th century among the Trobriand Islanders, located near Papua New Guinea. Malinowski's research showcased how Trobriand societies used religious rituals to meet psychological needs, especially in contexts of uncertainty and anxiety, such as long sea voyages during the kula ring exchanges. These rituals were believed to reduce anxiety by providing an illusion of control in situations that were largely uncontrollable, essentially serving as a psychological coping mechanism.
The Trobriander's also used magical language in their day-to-day practices, which was believed to have actual influence over their environment, like the growth of crops. This notion aligns with Malinowski's observation that such 'primitive societies' had complex cultural systems that addressed not just physical survival needs but also social and psychological ones. The Trobriand Islanders, through their belief in the power of rituals and magic, illustrate a broader human tendency to seek control over the uncertain aspects of life.
In conclusion, the Trobriand ideas of 'other minds' emphasize the functional aspect of religious and magical practices in reducing anxiety and exerting perceived control over the environment and social relations, highlighting the complex interplay between cultural beliefs and human psychological needs.