Is Shamanism a religion?

[Abacus]

When I search Google for "Shaman - capitalize?" more references say do not capitalize. At least one suggests that shamanism is not a religion.

Religion Stylebook:
shaman
A spiritual leader in a tribal society who heals people by channeling spirits, often in an altered state. Sometimes referred to as a medicine man or witch doctor. It is a description rather than a formal title; do not capitalize, even when used with a name.

[Stephanie Runyon]

Shaman are similar to Priests
At least in Native American terms. I think that unless a name follows it, then it shouldn't be capitalized. I know that saying the pope without a name is not. I looked that up in the Merriam Dictionary.

[MissM94]

I personally don’t think it is a religion because it involves a person who is able to communicate with spirits so that they can heal people. In Africa they are called traditional healers. All they do is to appease their gods/ancestors, communicate with them, and get information on how to heal people. You can become a healer if only you have a calling.

[Stephanie Runyon]

I personally don’t think it is a religion because it involves a person who is able to communicate with spirits so that they can heal people. In Africa they are called traditional healers. All they do is to appease their gods/ancestors, communicate with them, and get information on how to heal people. You can become a healer if only you have a calling.

I think you have a valid point. I think it depends greatly on Nationality and personal belief systems.