Raphael Cormack

Raphael Cormack, an assistant professor at Durham University and author of 'Holy Men of the Electromagnetic Age', delves into the captivating world of 1920s spiritualism. He discusses Tahra Bey, a performer known for his astonishing abilities like painless self-stabbing and Dr. Dahesh, who inspired a spiritual movement in Lebanon. The conversation reveals how these figures mirrored the post-World War I anxieties and explored the allure of the mystical, linking historical phenomena to contemporary societal issues regarding belief and celebrity.

Raphael Cormack, a British writer and Arab world scholar, delves into the lives of Tahra Bay and Dr. Dahesh, two enigmatic figures from early 20th-century spiritualism. He explores the vibrant occult scene in 1920s Cairo, highlighting its dance between mysticism and entertainment. Discover how Tahra Bay's performances blended identity and exploitation amid crises. The conversation also reveals the rise of Daheshism, the intriguing parallels between djinn summoning and hypnotism, and the fascinating cultural tapestry of 1960s Beirut.

Raphael Cormack, an award-winning editor and assistant professor at Durham University, explores the intriguing world of occultism in the 1920s and 30s. He discusses charismatic figures like Tahra Bey, who captivated Paris with Eastern mysticism, and Dr. Dahesh, who created a unique panreligious faith in Lebanon. Cormack delves into how these holy men reflected societal anxieties of their time, drawing parallels to today’s quest for meaning in an increasingly complicated world. Their stories resonate with our current search for understanding amidst uncertainty.