Introduction

Earl Fontenelle: The problem with magic is that it doesn't exist. We can look at the history of the word itself, which is often a good entry point for considering a tricky subject. And then thirdly, we can specify exactly what the term magic might mean, but also why it's very problematic. But having done all this, I think it will be both fun and instructive to dive headfirst into the labyrinth that I just talked about. It may be useful, but it won't be magical.