Mind Over Magick - by Richard Kaczynski (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

A scientific examination of magical practice

- Draws on peer-reviewed research in psychology and cognitive neuroscience, such as real-time brain imaging, to examine the effects of mystical states and magical practice

- Shows how being "in the zone," as described by athletes and performers, is consistent with the ritualist's state of mind when working magic

- Suggests rituals and routines to strengthen one's practice of magic, witchcraft, meditation, and yoga with empirically proven tools

By looking through the lens of psychology, cognitive neuroscience, and real-time brain imaging, Mind over Magick shows how and why ritual magical practice can produce profound experiences with tangible benefits.

The author draws on a wealth of peer-reviewed research to shed new light on magic. He uses the infamous Stanford Prison Experiment, in which subjects role-played as prisoners and guards, to reveal the power of magical vestments and personas and the effects they have on ritual practitioners. The author shows how being "in the zone," as described by athletes and performers, is consistent with the ritualist's state of mind when working magic. He also reveals what neurological processes are involved when one encounters and works with spirits. Rituals are suggested to strengthen one's practice of magic, witchcraft, meditation, and yoga with empirically proven tools for optimal results. Readers can apply the scientific method to critically evaluate their own spiritual praxis and determine what works best for them. Solitary practitioners and group participants alike will learn what happens, both on a psychological and neurological level, when they enter sacred spaces and use ritual implements as well as enter deep meditative states. The author also details the importance of initiation as a rite of passage and transformative method of instruction.

With this book, readers can approach the art of practicing magic as a science in order to hone a more effective and empirically grounded practice.

About the Author

Richard Kaczynski is a lifelong student and writer on Western esotericism. He is an authority on the life and works of Aleister Crowley. The author of Perdurabo: The Life of Aleister Crowley and editor of Aleister Crowley's The Sword of Song, he holds a Ph.D. in psychology with a minor in statistics. His doctoral dissertation examined the structure and correlates of metaphysical beliefs.