Abstract

Contends that parapsychologists should learn about magic because knowledge of magic can give the field investigator a better chance of making a preliminary evaluation of uncontrolled paranormal phenomena and the laboratory investigator an appreciation for required controls. The major critics of parapsychology have all performed magic professionally or have published in magic periodicals. Magicians have a place in psi research. Types of magic important to parapsychologists are outlined, including conjuring, bizarre magic, and opportunistic psychic magic. It is suggested that, in every magic trick, the effect is what the spectator sees; the method is often simple but involves subtle misdirection and control of the audience in presentation. It is suggested that parapsychologists obtain magic reference books and apparatus of magic, and a list of sources of such information is offered. (39 ref)