Magic tricks 'window to human mind'

Last Modified: 23 Jul 2008
Source: PA News

Magic tricks, such as those by Derren Brown and David Blaine, should be studied more closely to gain a deeper knowledge of the way human beings think and act, according to new research.

A new study concludes that elements of human cognition and perception that are not yet fully understood by scientists may receive greater insight by analysing tricks and techniques used by magicians. These techniques, which have been developed over thousands of years, offer powerful tools to manipulate our perception.

The findings have potential long-term applications in activities which aim to grab - and hold - people's attention, such as human-computer interfaces which are thought to become increasingly more complicated.

The study, by researchers from Durham University and the University of British Columbia, is published online in the academic journal Trends In Cognitive Sciences.

It outlines the key techniques of the magic trade - categorised as "misdirection, illusion and forcing" - which have only recently been formally identified by scientists and taken seriously as a valid research area.

Although a few attempts have been made in the past to draw links between magic and human cognition, this knowledge has been largely ignored by modern psychology, say the scientists.

Dr Gustav Kuhn, from Durham University's psychology department, is a practising magician.

He said: "Magicians are in some ways miles ahead of scientists. For example, imagine a ball tossed into the air that suddenly disappears, or someone successfully predicting what you will do next.

"These tricks may seem like they defy the laws of physics and logic but they are actually created through a combination of skill and a deep knowledge of human psychology.

"By drawing upon the practical knowledge and experience of magicians, scientists may obtain new insights into various areas of human perception and cognition that we are still struggling to understand."

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