Graduation Year

2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree

M.A.

Degree Name

Master of Arts (M.A.)

Degree Granting Department

Religious Studies

Major Professor

Michael P. DeJonge, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Tori Lockler, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Garrett Potts, Ph.D.

Keywords

Luhmann, Magic, Modernity, Religion, Science

Abstract

This paper seeks to propose an alternative approach for studying magic. It is often the case inacademia, when studying magic, scholars use an understanding of modernity which favors a scientific perspective. When doing so, some scholars have concluded magic has become extinct in our modern society; despite recent research suggesting magical practice is thriving. Likewise, this scholarship promotes an idea of magic grounded in fear, ignorance, superstition, and fraudulence. The goal of this paper is two-fold. First, I seek to advocate for an approach to magic that allows for a plurality of perspectives to be acknowledged, not just a scientific one. To do this, I will be using an understanding of modernity developed by Niklas Luhmann. Second, for this to work, this paper will provide an account of magic as a function system independent from science and religion. Magic, in this way, is understood as communication revolving around participation; participation being the engagement with unobservable occult forces to achieve an observable result. By implementing this approach, an account of magic which arguably is more complementary of magical practice in our modern society. This paper concludes by offering a bright future for the academic study of magic that expands beyond the realm of science and religion.

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