📖 Overview
Real Magic examines esoteric and magical practices through the lens of scientific research and parapsychology. Dean Radin, a researcher in consciousness studies, presents evidence from laboratory experiments that test magical phenomena.
The book traces magic through history, from ancient civilizations to modern practices, documenting its presence across cultures and time periods. It explores three categories of magic - force of will, divination, and theurgy - and their potential basis in quantum mechanics and other scientific principles.
Radin details controlled studies of telepathy, precognition, and psychokinesis conducted at major research institutions. The text includes analysis of meta-studies and replication attempts while addressing common skeptical arguments.
This work bridges the gap between esoteric traditions and empirical science, suggesting that ancient magical practices may have accessed natural phenomena not yet fully understood by conventional research methods. Through extensive documentation and analysis, it raises questions about consciousness and its role in affecting physical reality.
👀 Reviews
Readers describe the book as a scientific examination of psychic phenomena that bridges parapsychology research with quantum mechanics. Many appreciate Radin's academic approach and extensive citations, with one reviewer noting it "presents evidence without pushing beliefs."
Readers highlight:
- Clear explanations of complex concepts
- Balance of scientific rigor with accessibility
- Inclusion of research data and studies
- Neutral tone on controversial topics
Common criticisms:
- Too dense with scientific terminology
- Some sections repeat material from Radin's previous books
- Quantum physics connections feel stretched
- Not enough practical applications
Ratings:
Goodreads: 4.1/5 (1,200+ ratings)
Amazon: 4.5/5 (500+ ratings)
One skeptical reader noted: "While well-researched, it makes leaps in logic to connect quantum mechanics to psychic phenomena." Another wrote: "The statistical analysis is solid but the conclusions go beyond what the data supports."
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Biocentrism by Robert Lanza This work combines quantum physics with biological science to present a theory of consciousness as fundamental to the universe's structure.
🤔 Interesting facts
🔮 Dean Radin holds a PhD in psychology and has conducted research at Princeton University, Edinburgh University, and Stanford Research Institute.
📚 The book draws from over 100 years of scientific research into psychic phenomena, including studies from prestigious institutions and peer-reviewed journals.
🧪 Radin coined the term "presentiment effect" to describe how the human body can respond to future events before they occur, which he demonstrated through multiple laboratory experiments.
⚡ The CIA's own declassified documents, referenced in the book, reveal decades of government research into psychic phenomena and remote viewing.
🌟 Prior to writing "Real Magic," Radin served as President of the Parapsychological Association, an affiliate of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).