J. J. Morse’s channeling of Tien Sien Tie and other Asian spirits reflects 19th century Orientalism, a form of exoticism of Asian cultures, or the “Eastern World,” popularly known as the “Orient” through this time period. Such language, particularly when used in reference to people, is recognized as offensive today because it homogenizes many distinct cultures into harmful stereotypes of the “other”. Exoticization, as in Orientalism, is a product by and for Western culture, and can be connected to cultural appropriation.
Depiction of Tien Sien Tie, medium J.J. Morse’s Chief Control. (From a pencil drawing by Wella Anderson, the American Drawing Medium, under control, and with bandaged eyes.)” In pamphlet “The Mysteries of Mediumship. A Spirit Interviewed: Being an Account of the Life and Mediumship of J. J. Morse with a Full Report of an Interview with his Chief Control Tien Sien Tie. Also, as an Appendix, a Lecture Entitled: Some Experiences in Earth and Spirit Life of the Speaking Control of J. J. Morse Known as Tien Sien Tie, as Delivered by the Spirit, With Portraits of Medium and Spirit,” reprinted from Light magazine. Thomas Olman Todd, Publisher, Sunderland. The Progressive Literature Agency, 26 Osnaburgh Street, London, N.W., 1894, Folder “Mediumship,” Box 30, Eileen J. Garrett Parapsychology Foundation Collection, Collection 331. University of Maryland Baltimore County. Baltimore, MD.