Kuhn, Gustav; Amlani, A. A. and Rensink, R. A.. 2008. Towards a science of magic. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 12(9), pp. 349-354. ISSN 1364-6613 [Article]

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Abstract or Description

It is argued here that cognitive science currently neglects an important source of insight into the human mind: the effects created by magicians. Over the centuries, magicians have learned how to perform acts that are perceived as defying the laws of nature, and that induce a strong sense of wonder. This article argues that the time has come to examine the scientific bases behind such phenomena, and to create a science of magic linked to relevant areas of cognitive science. Concrete examples are taken from three areas of magic: the ability to control attention, to distort perception, and to influence choice. It is shown how such knowledge can help develop new tools and indicate new avenues of research into human perception and cognition.

Item Type:	Article
Identification Number (DOI):	https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tics.2008.05.008
Additional Information:	Times Cited: 23 Kuhn, Gustav Amlani, Alym A. Rensink, Ronald A.
Departments, Centres and Research Units:	Psychology Research Office > REF2014
Dates:	Date Event 2008 Published
Item ID:	8263
Date Deposited:	19 Jun 2013 10:54
Last Modified:	04 Jul 2017 09:29
Peer Reviewed:	Yes, this version has been peer-reviewed.
URI:	https://research.gold.ac.uk/id/eprint/8263

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