The definition of Magical thinking is attributing a causal or synchronistic relationship between events, which seemingly cannot be justified by reason and observation. It’s used pejoratively by those who consider themselves rational and scientific. Though new discoveries upset old beliefs about reality every several years, rationalists consider truth, only what has been proven thus far. Philosophers and mystics who don’t allow their thinking to be constrained by the obvious or proven, perceive the hidden (and perfect) sequence of cause and effect, which is often verified later scientifically. It’s not superstitious just because it’s…
Outside the box.
Jarl and Steve
Many of us “science people” understand that nothing is ever proven. Experiments and observations either strengthen or weaken hypotheses, but since any hypothesis can be overthrown (like Newton’s gravity), nothing can be proven. Judging by the common use of the word “prove”, most of our press and public seem not to understand that. As we see that the more we think we figure out, the more we cannot understand, and magic assumes the positive role it had in spiritual belief before the patriarchal religions. I think the youngest generation is understanding now that “magic” can hardly be a perjorative and that “magical thinking” is just one more piece of our know-it-all hubris. Magic seems to me an entirely valuable aspect of our reality. “Superstition” derives from Latin as “standing above”, which feels to me a lot more appropriate than our current notion.
I see it as gratitude and respect that almost everything is “outside the box”, because the boxes we create for ourselves are very small and hard-edged. Our “understanding” is a comfort, especially before we see that it is part of the little game we play with ourselves.
I am very much comforted to watch our “knowledge” coming full circle back to what we perceived as primitives. The notion of “proof” is a terrible trap except within our own inner worlds.
Your work is always very stimulating and provocative.
Thank you Larry! We love to hear what you have to say! Was just thinking about you yesterday and wondering how you are. What’s new?