ABSTRACT
The esoteric community in the Valley is composed of loosely interconnected networks of practitioners and collectivities which constitute particular factions, segments, or alliances. Seekers, students, practitioners, and group members are linked by way of networks of relationships, and they circulate among the collectivities in the community. One set of social networks in the esoteric community, described as hermetic, reflects a scholarly-like concern for nonconventional teachings and knowledge, with an emphasis on physical well-being, healing, or esoteric medicine. Social networks composing the augur faction of the esoteric community predominantly involve people and groups with a more secular focus on exploring the human mind, particularly hidden or concealed senses whereby occult knowledge is viewed as a path to personal power and success. The metaphysic faction of the esoteric community primarily consists of religious cults. In the Valley psychic fairs are organized by members of the esoteric community around professional practices such as readings or treatments.
