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Weird Studies
Episode 24: The Charlatan and the Magus, with Lionel Snell
Aug 28, 2018
Lionel Snell, a.k.a. Ramsey Dukes, is an author and esoteric thinker exploring the intersections of magic and philosophy. He dives into the roles of trickery and authenticity in spiritual practices, challenging conventional views on truth and illusion. Snell discusses the wisdom found in deceitful experiences, cultural shifts in perceptions of truth, and the balance between rational thought and magical belief. He champions embracing uncertainty and mystery, ultimately advocating for a richer understanding of reality that transcends strict rationalism.
58:23
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Quick takeaways
- Trickery may serve as a vital catalyst in experiencing real magic, challenging the conventional view of magic as merely fraudulent.
- Dukes invites a cyclical understanding of cultural paradigms, emphasizing the importance of rebalancing truth, beauty, and goodness in our experiences.
Deep dives
The Intersection of Magic and Skepticism
The discussion highlights the paradoxical relationship between perceived fraud and genuine magic, as outlined by Ramsey Dukes. He points out that when examples of charlatans and exploitative gurus come to light, people typically respond in one of three ways: skeptics dismiss all magic as fraudulent, defensive believers feel attacked, and committed believers defend their truth against the frauds. Dukes proposes a different lens through which to view this dynamic, suggesting that trickery may not be a flaw but rather an integral part of the magical experience. By positioning charlatans and magi as potentially the same entity, he invites listeners to explore trickery's role in the journey toward understanding magic.
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