A book on the psychology of magical thought explores the phenomenon of how individuals engage in magical thinking and the psychological processes behind it. Throughout various cultures and societies, magical beliefs and practices have persisted, despite the advancements in science and logic. This book aims to understand why. **The main idea underlying the book is to delve into the human mind and analyze the reasons and processes behind magical thinking.** It is proposed that magical thinking serves important psychological functions, such as providing a sense of control over uncertain events, reducing anxiety, and establishing a feeling of connection to a greater power or force. The book presents compelling evidence from research in cognitive psychology and neuroscience to support these assertions.
As you enter Old Town Hall to experience Cry Innocent, the year is 1692. You’ve just learned that Bridget Bishop, one of your Puritan neighbors who lived only a couple of blocks from where you are seated, has been accused of practicing witchcraft and you will be serving on her jury. In a stirring performance by talented local actors, you’ll be able to hear evidence from witnesses as to why Bishop was accused, ask your own questions and ultimately determine the outcome.
A totally unique way to immerse yourself in the history of the Salem Witch Trials, Cry Innocent is a popular Haunted Happenings attraction that often sells out. Seating is limited this October to create adequate room for spacing, so if you already know Cry Innocent is on your list for this October, we recommend purchasing your tickets here in advance.
The book presents compelling evidence from research in cognitive psychology and neuroscience to support these assertions. **Thus, the book argues that magical thinking fulfills important psychological needs and serves a positive purpose in the lives of individuals.** Moreover, the book discusses the crossover between magical thinking and religion, examining the similarities and differences between the two.
Harding Theatre performs ‘The Crucible’
Harding Theatre took the stage Thursday night for the first performance of their production of “The Crucible.” There will be three more performances, tonight and tomorrow night, both at 7 p.m., and a matinee Monday, Feb. 27, at 11 a.m.
Arthur Miller’s classic play is a dramatized, partially fictionalized story of the 1692 Salem witch trials, when more than 200 people in Salem, Massachusetts, were accused of practicing witchcraft.
Senior Josie Holman said Miller’s retelling of the Salem witch trials interweaves lessons and warnings about the effects of fear on society.
“This is a show about what happens when fear runs people, when it runs a society and what happens when that fear is allowed to take over instead of the leadership that’s in place — when leadership fails to control the fear narrative,” Holman said.
Sophomore TJ Brown added that the heavy themes dealt with in this show set it apart from other Harding productions.
“It’s a bit more gritty,” Brown said. “It’s hard. It’s going to be an immersive experience.”
Brown plays the role of the protagonist, John Proctor.
“John Proctor is at this point in the show, first and foremost, guilty,” Brown said. “He’s filled with shame for something that he’s done in the past that you’ll learn about if you come see the show. He’s guilty, he’s angry, he’s confused throughout most of the show.”
Holman plays the role of John Proctor’s faithful wife, Elizabeth.
“She has been hurt very deeply by [John] very recently and is trying to learn how to recover their marriage,” Holman said. “But Elizabeth herself is a very hard, sharp woman, and it does not come naturally for her.”
Director Britton Lynn said the themes of Miller’s 1953 play are relevant to society today.
“The English teachers in this country will tell you that Miller wrote this play because it was a commentary on the fear of McCarthyism in the early 1950s,” Lynn said. “But when you read it and look at it with a contemporary eye, it’s not about any kind of specific political movement or anything. It’s actually about how if we allow fear to drive our actions, fear is incredibly destructive and divisive.”
Lynn said one of the main goals of taking this story and the real events it was based upon to the stage was to capture the genuine fear people felt at the time.
“Back in the Salem witch trials, they were deathly afraid of the supernatural, deathly afraid of the environment outside of their civilized world, because it was still very new, very raw, very dangerous,” Lynn said.
“Trying to capture that fear with this production and then talk about how it influences us was the goal that we had for the show.”
Lynn said audiences should take their seats around the thrust stage in the Ulrey Performing Arts Center this weekend ready to think deeply.
“It’s not a happy show,” Lynn said. “It’s a gritty show. It’s an angry show. It’s a preachy show. “So come ready to think; come ready to be challenged.”
“It’s a bit more gritty,” Brown said. “It’s hard. It’s going to be an immersive experience.”
It delves into the role of rituals, superstitions, and magical practices in both religious and non-religious contexts. The author also explores the evolutionary origins of magical thinking, suggesting that it may have served as an adaptive mechanism in human evolution. Magical thinking could have acted as a tool to enhance survival by providing a sense of familiarity and control in the face of unpredictable and dangerous environments. **Therefore, the book posits that magical thinking may be deeply ingrained in human nature and a remnant of our evolutionary past.** In addition, the book addresses the potential dangers and drawbacks of excessive magical thinking. It examines cases where magical beliefs have led to harmful practices or hindered critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The author concludes by offering insight and strategies for individuals to engage with and critically evaluate their own magical thinking tendencies, promoting a balanced perspective that appreciates the psychological benefits while remaining grounded in reality. **Overall, the book aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of the psychology of magical thought, shedding light on the reasons behind its persistence, its positive and negative implications, and ways for individuals to engage with it in a healthy and balanced manner.**.
Reviews for "From Enchantment to Enthrallment: The Psychology of Belief in Magic"
1. John - 2/5 - I found "Book on the psychology of magical thought" to be quite disappointing. The author claimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the psychology behind magical beliefs, but I felt like the book lacked depth and substance. The explanations were extremely basic and didn't offer any new insights. Additionally, the writing style was dry and monotonous, making it difficult to hold my attention. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone seeking a serious exploration of the psychology of magical thought.
2. Emily - 1/5 - "Book on the psychology of magical thought" was a total letdown for me. The author seemed more interested in showcasing their own beliefs and biases rather than providing an objective analysis. Their dismissive attitude towards magical thought was evident throughout the book, making it difficult to take their arguments seriously. The lack of empirical evidence and reliance on personal anecdotes further weakened the book's credibility. I was hoping to gain a better understanding of the psychology behind magical thinking, but this book fell short on delivering any meaningful insights.
3. Michael - 2/5 - I had high hopes for "Book on the psychology of magical thought," but it failed to meet my expectations. The author approached the topic with a skeptical and condescending tone, which I found off-putting. Instead of presenting a balanced analysis, they seemed more interested in proving their own beliefs right. The lack of objective research and reliance on speculative theories undermined the credibility of the book. Overall, I felt that the author missed an opportunity to explore the psychology of magical thought in a more nuanced and insightful manner.