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Magical Thinking


From Design+Encyclopedia, the free encyclopedia on good design, art, architecture, creativity, engineering and innovation.
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Magical Thinking

Magical thinking is a phenomenon that involves believing in supernatural or paranormal events or connections between events. It is a way of thinking that is not based on evidence or rationality but is instead grounded in superstition or belief in the supernatural. Magical thinking can manifest in many forms, including belief in lucky charms, rituals, or the power of positive thinking. It can also be seen in the belief in psychic powers, ghosts, or other supernatural phenomena. Magical thinking is often associated with childhood or primitive cultures, but it is also present in modern societies. It can be a coping mechanism for dealing with uncertainty or anxiety, as it provides a sense of control over events that are beyond one's control. It can also be a way of expressing creativity or imagination, as magical thinking often involves creating stories or narratives that explain events in a supernatural or paranormal way. However, magical thinking can also be harmful if it leads to irrational or dangerous behavior. For example, believing that one is immune to harm because of a lucky charm or ritual can lead to risky behavior. Believing in the power of positive thinking to cure serious illnesses can lead to neglecting medical treatment or delaying necessary interventions. Overall, magical thinking is a complex phenomenon that can have both positive and negative effects on individuals and society. It is important to understand the underlying motivations and beliefs that drive magical thinking in order to address its potential harms and promote rational thinking.

supernatural, paranormal, coping mechanism, creativity, irrational, dangerous

Nicholas Smith

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Magical Thinking

Magical Thinking is an idea that some people have that they can make things happen by wishing or thinking about them. It's like believing in a superpower. Magical Thinking is a type of cognitive bias and logical fallacy, which means it's a way of thinking that is not based in facts or evidence. It's a way of believing things that don't really make sense, but it can be comforting for people who want to feel like they have some control over their lives.

Magical Thinking, Cognitive Bias, Logical Fallacy, Superstition

Thomas Lee

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Magical Thinking

Magical Thinking is a cognitive bias that involves believing events to be causally connected even when there is no evidence to support the connection. It is a form of illogical thinking that is based on superstition and can lead to a person making false assumptions about cause-and-effect relationships. People with magical thinking often believe that their thoughts, wishes, or words can influence the world around them in ways that are not grounded in reality. It is often seen as a form of irrationality, as one's beliefs are not based on reality but instead on magical thinking. Magical thinking can lead to a person making decisions that are not based on facts or reality but instead on superstitions and other irrational beliefs.

Magical Thinking, cognitive biases, logical fallacies, superstition, irrationality, false assumptions, cause-and-effect relationships, superstitious beliefs.

Jessica Adams


Magical Thinking Definition
Magical Thinking on Design+Encyclopedia

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