The Infinite Monkey Cage Could it be magic?
Feb 21, 2024
Brian Cox and Robin Ince delve into the science of magic with comedians and experts, exploring the psychology behind magic tricks and the brain's predictive nature. They discuss the art of card magic, misdirection techniques, and the therapeutic benefits of magic. The podcast highlights the intersection of magic and science, revealing the complexities and illusions behind captivating tricks.
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Grandfather Sparked A Lifelong Obsession
- Richard Wiseman learned magic from his grandfather and hunted secrets in the library as a child.
- He kept a small metal gimmick that changed his life and would rescue it from a burning house.
We See The Brain's Prediction, Not Instant Reality
- Gustav Kuhn explains vision has a processing delay of about a tenth of a second and the brain predicts the near future.
- Magicians exploit that prediction to make actions like a vanishing ball seem real.
Signed Card Trick Fooling The Panel
- Laura London performed a signed-card routine that used misdirection and a folded card reveal.
- The panel, including Alan Davies, was visibly fooled despite close proximity.