Real Magic: Ancient Wisdom, Modern Science, and a Guide to the Secret Power of the Universe

“Real Magic: Ancient Wisdom, Modern Science, and a Guide to the Secret Power of the Universe” by Dean Radin offers an intriguing perspective on how what we traditionally consider as ‘magic’ might be explainable through the lens of modern science. Radin makes several claims in this book and includes many notable figures from the worlds of science and the esoteric.

1. Magic is Real: Radin’s fundamental assertion is that phenomena typically classified as ‘magic’ are real and not antithetical to science. He categorizes magic into three types: divination (foreseeing the future), force of will (influencing physical systems), and theurgy (communication with nonphysical entities).
2. Parallels with Quantum Physics: He draws parallels between magical practices and quantum physics, arguing that both operate in realms beyond our everyday perceptions. He uses principles like entanglement and nonlocality to illustrate this link.
3. Consciousness is Fundamental: Radin suggests that consciousness is not a by-product of physical processes, but a fundamental aspect of the universe. This view is contrary to the materialist perspective typically held in mainstream science.
4. Evidence for Psychic Phenomena: He presents evidence from experiments on psychic phenomena such as ESP, telepathy, and precognition, implying that these phenomena are part of our natural world, even if they are not fully understood yet.
5. Magic and Modern Technology: Radin proposes that magic and modern technology are closely related. He contends that just as we can use smartphones without understanding their intricate workings, we can use ‘magic’ without fully comprehending its mechanisms.
6. Transformation of Perception: Radin claims that accepting the reality of magic could transform how we perceive and interact with the world, leading to a greater sense of interconnectedness and potential for positive change.

In “Real Magic,” Dean Radin presents an unconventional yet thought-provoking approach to understanding phenomena typically associated with magic. He posits that these phenomena are not only real but also intrinsic to the natural world. In his perspective, these are not anomalies or tricks of the mind, but rather natural extensions of the universe that are not yet fully understood or accepted by mainstream science. Radin emphasizes that these phenomena do not contradict science but extend it into realms that are currently under-explored.

Radin categorizes the ‘magical’ phenomena into three broad types:

1. Divination: Divination, in traditional terms, is the practice of seeking knowledge of the future or the unknown through supernatural means. In Radin’s interpretation, divination involves processes akin to extrasensory perception, precognition, and clairvoyance. Radin discusses scientific studies, such as the Ganzfeld experiments, that suggest the existence of precognitive abilities. He points out that while these abilities do not fit into the current scientific understanding, they don’t necessarily defy the laws of nature but instead hint towards an expanded view of reality.
2. Force of Will: Radin uses the term ‘Force of Will’ to describe the ability to influence physical systems through intent or focused consciousness. This includes phenomena like telekinesis and distant healing. Although this claim challenges conventional scientific wisdom, Radin points to studies within the field of parapsychology that suggest a measurable impact of human intention on physical systems, a phenomenon also sometimes referred to as mind-matter interaction.
3. Theurgy: Theurgy traditionally refers to a practice intending to invoke the action or presence of one or more deities. In a broader sense, and in Radin’s context, it involves communication with nonphysical entities or consciousness. This might include experiences such as channeling, mediumship, or other forms of perceived communication with non-corporeal beings or consciousness. Radin suggests that these experiences, often dismissed as hallucination or delusion, might instead point to aspects of reality that our current scientific paradigm cannot yet explain. Dean Radin, in his book “Real Magic,” approaches the concept of deities from a perspective that straddles the border of science and spirituality. His use of the term ‘theurgy’ typically refers to practices associated with invoking the action or presence of one or more deities or gods. However, Radin’s understanding of deities doesn’t necessarily conform to religious or mythological interpretations. Instead, Radin suggests the possibility that what we perceive as deities, spirits, or other nonphysical entities might be manifestations of consciousness that exist in ways we do not fully understand. These entities may exist in dimensions or states of reality that are currently beyond the reach of our physical senses and scientific instruments. The interactions with such entities, as experienced by individuals through practices like mediumship or channeling, are seen by Radin as potential evidence for an expanded view of consciousness and reality.

Radin’s propositions challenge the strict materialistic view of the world and invite readers to consider a more expanded understanding of reality, where consciousness plays a central role, and phenomena often categorized as ‘magic’ are integral to our understanding of the universe. His assertions seek to bridge the gap between science and spirituality, calling for a more inclusive, open-minded scientific investigation.

Important People:

1. Carl Jung: The renowned psychiatrist and psychoanalyst known for his work on the collective unconscious and synchronicity, concepts that Radin refers to in discussions on divination and non-local consciousness.
2. Max Planck: The theoretical physicist who made significant contributions to quantum mechanics. Radin frequently references Planck’s quote that consciousness is fundamental and matter is derived from it.
3. J.B. Rhine: A parapsychologist mentioned in the book for his pioneering research in extrasensory perception and psychokinesis.

Books Discussing ‘Real Magic’:

1. “Demystifying the Out-of-Body Experience: A Practical Manual for Exploration and Personal Evolution” by Luis Minero (2012): While not directly discussing ‘Real Magic,’ this book explores topics of altered states of consciousness that align with Radin’s views. Minero offers practical techniques to induce and control out-of-body experiences, a concept that complements Radin’s discussion on consciousness and reality.
2. “Quantum Enigma: Physics Encounters Consciousness” by Bruce Rosenblum and Fred Kuttner (2006): This book explores the strange link between quantum mechanics and consciousness. Although it doesn’t specifically talk about Radin’s ‘Real Magic,’ it provides a larger context for understanding the scientific premises Radin employs.
3. “Science and Psychic Phenomena: The Fall of the House of Skeptics” by Chris Carter (2012): Carter’s book debates the scientific mainstream’s dismissal of psychic phenomena, echoing Radin’s criticisms and offering a comprehensive review of evidence in favor of such phenomena.

‘Real Magic’ by Dean Radin challenges traditional boundaries between science and the esoteric, advocating for a more inclusive understanding of reality. While Radin’s ideas have sparked controversy, they have also contributed to a broader discussion about the nature of consciousness and the potential intersections of science and spirituality.