Magic: A Very Short — Introduction

In his book Magic: A Very Short Introduction , Professor Owen Davies explores magic not as a set of secret tricks, but as a complex global phenomenon that has shaped human history, science, and religion for millennia.

: Exploring how humans naturally engage in "magical thinking". Magic: A Very Short Introduction

: Looking at the psychology behind magical belief. In his book Magic: A Very Short Introduction

: Far from disappearing, magic remains a real force for millions today, providing remedies for poverty or misfortune and appearing in modern contexts like neopaganism and even capitalism. Table of Contents Overview The book follows a chronological and thematic progression: : Far from disappearing, magic remains a real

: Examining how magic was recorded in grimoires and actually performed.

: Davies argues that magic, science, and religion are inextricably linked . For example, in the medieval era, "natural magic" was seen as a legitimate way to unlock God's secrets in the material world.

The book is structured into two main sections— and Practice —to help readers navigate how magic has been defined and used.