Magical Consciousness in Childhood Experiences

A type of cognitive process that involves associating ideas and images, often drawing on intuitive and emotional connections, rather than relying on logical analysis.

A way of knowing based on intuitive insight, symbolism, and the power of the imagination. It contrasts with rational, scientific modes of thought.

The ability to perceive and interact with a non-physical reality, often encountered through dreams, visions, or altered states of consciousness.

The idea that magical thinking is a relic of primitive societies that has been superseded by more rational scientific thought.

The study of how magic functions within social contexts, exploring its role in rituals, beliefs, and social cohesion.

A form of analysis that examines how magic holds up against the norms and values of modern society, particularly regarding rationality and progress.

A research method that involves immersing oneself in a culture or group to understand their experience from their perspective, often incorporating personal insights and reflections.

The idea that magic, while not necessarily inferior to science, operates differently and offers a unique way of knowing and understanding the world.

The study of magic as a cultural phenomenon and a way of knowing, focusing on how people experience and practice it in different societies.

The act of putting yourself in the perspective of the people you study, understanding their beliefs and experiences from their point of view.

To include yourself as a participant in the research, providing first-hand experiences and insights into the topic being studied.

The ability to experience or understand something beyond the realm of physical reality, relying on imagination, intuition, and possibly spiritual or magical elements.

Individuals who have developed a strong connection with the spiritual or supernatural realm, often using their knowledge to heal, guide, or influence others.

An element of surprise or unexpected good fortune, often seen as related to the magical or spiritual realm.

A form of communication or expression that relies on symbols, rituals, or practices, often with the intention of influencing the physical or spiritual world.

A deliberate effort to connect the field of magic, often considered esoteric or mystical, with academic discourse, aiming to bridge the gap between practitioners and scholars.

The study of human societies and cultures, particularly in regard to their social structures, beliefs, and practices. It often employs fieldwork and ethnographic methods to understand diverse human experiences.

A form of knowledge that is acquired through reasoning, logic, and observation, often characterized by reliance on empirical evidence and systematic methods.

The ability to think and act in a way that defies traditional frameworks of logic and reason, often incorporating intuition, symbolism, and belief in the power of magical forces.

Conceptual and Experiential Aspects of Magical Thinking

A deliberate effort to use anthropological methods to understand and communicate about magic, particularly the experiences and perspectives of practitioners.

A space where communication with imagined entities might occur, a realm where magical consciousness can interact with entities beyond the physical realm.

The ability to shift between two different states of awareness, symbolized by the two halves of the dragon stone.

The right hemisphere of the brain is associated with creative, intuitive, and holistic thinking.

The left hemisphere of the brain is associated with analytical, logical, and linear thinking.

When someone is in a state of magical consciousness, their belief or disbelief in spirits becomes irrelevant for their experience.

The belief in spirits or the existence of the supernatural can limit our ability to explore alternative perceptions.

To have an alternative perception, we need to shift our awareness to a state of magical consciousness.

The stone with a segmented pattern represents the two hemispheres of the brain, symbolizing the duality of our thinking.

A philosophical shift that separated the mind from the body, favoring rational thought over sensory experience.

The idea that true knowledge comes only from reason and logic, leaving little room for intuitive or mystical experiences.

The philosophical perspective that sees the world as a complex machine, governed by mathematical laws and impersonal forces.

A period of significant cultural and intellectual change in Europe, emphasized reason, scientific inquiry, and the rejection of traditional beliefs, often considering magical practices as superstition.

The process by which elements of magic, particularly natural magic, were absorbed into the developing scientific framework, ultimately contributing to the rise of modern science.

A type of magic focused on understanding and manipulating the natural world through observation, experimentation, and practical applications.

The belief that magic is an outdated and inferior way of knowing the world, superseded by the more rational and reliable methods of science.

The idea that magic is a legitimate source of knowledge and understanding, existing alongside science and offering a unique perspective on the world and its workings.