Juensung Kim - The Science of Magic & Transformation
Aug 9, 2021
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The podcast delves into the science of magic and transformation, exploring topics like the historical evolution of magic, illusions of body and mind, divination methods, sword fighting, and personal growth during the COVID lockdown. It also discusses the connection between magic, wisdom, and mutual inspiration.
Magic practices can be individualistic or collective, involving personal rituals or group ceremonies based on cultural traditions.
Meditation, trance, and hypnosis are essential in magic, aiding in accessing deep self-awareness and metaphysical realms.
Balancing solitary rituals and group ceremonies is crucial in magic, enabling tapping into personal power and collective energy.
Deep dives
Individualistic and Collective Practices in Magic
Individualistic and collective magical practices have both been common throughout history. Individualistic practices often involve personal rituals and exercises like meditation to enhance control over one's thoughts and images. In contrast, collective practices may involve groups working together to create enchantments, perform rituals, or summon entities. These practices can vary based on cultural traditions and the goals of the practitioners.
Meditation, Trans, and Hypnosis in Magical Practices
Meditation, hypnosis, and trance states play vital roles in magical practices. Meditation is akin to a control exercise, helping individuals refine their mental focus and awareness. Trans and hypnosis, on the other hand, involve altered states of consciousness where one either induces the state themselves (trans) or has it induced by another person (hypnosis). These practices can aid in accessing deeper levels of self-awareness and connecting with metaphysical realms.
Magic as a Blend of Individual and Group Activities
Magic encompasses a spectrum of practices ranging from solitary rituals to collective ceremonies. Individualistic approaches often involve personal introspection, meditation, and spellcasting, while group activities may include coven rituals, ceremonial magic, and joint spellcraft. The balance between individual exploration and communal collaboration allows practitioners to tap into personal power and the collective energy of a group.
Safety and Training in Sword Fighting
Sword fighting, especially in historical European martial arts, emphasizes safety and control in practice. The use of safety equipment like fencing masks and other protective gear is crucial to minimize injury risk. Training partners focus on honing control to prevent accidental harm during practice, highlighting the importance of discipline and skill development in sword fighting sports.
The Role of Magic and Psychedelics in Personal Transformation
The podcast delves into the significance of space and time in magical practices, highlighting how some traditions value private rituals for honing skills and connecting with deities, contrasting with public Norse rituals. It also explores the association between psychedelics and magic, discussing their potential benefits but also mentioning the dangers, especially in the context of microdosing for productivity.
Self-Transcendence and Personal Growth During Lockdown
A study on personal growth during the COVID-19 lockdown is discussed, emphasizing the importance of self-transcendence in predicting well-being. People high in self-transcendence engage in meaningful activities like connecting with family, while those lower focus on survival activities like grocery shopping. The study raises questions about why some individuals pursue transformative aspirations, linking aspirations to complex practices like magic and mysticism for profound self-improvement.
Juensung Kim is a PhD candidate at the University of Toronto, focusing on the science of self-transformation related to the psychology of religion and the cognitive science of magic. He is the lab manager of the Consciousness and Wisdom Studies Laboratory.
In this episode, we discuss the meaning of magic and some of its scientific research. Other topics such as psychedelics, wisdom and transformation are also covered, especially in their connection to the meaning crisis and Juensung's work.
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