Magic and Neuroscience: The Power of Attention Manipulation

The chapter explores how magicians utilize concepts from cognitive neuroscience, such as change blindness and inattentional blindness, to deceive audiences through attention manipulation. Neuroscience researchers explain how magicians have long understood and exploited the limitations of human attention, shedding light on the parallels between magic tricks and brain processes. Through discussions on the cups and balls trick and the art of misdirection, the chapter demonstrates how magicians use attention control to create wonder and captivate audiences.