Psychology of Magic

Prof Wiseman and Dr Peter Lamont (University of Edinburgh) have utilised their backgrounds in magic to gain unique access to leading international magicians, interviewing them about the psychology used to create and perform magic.

The results of this work, published in their book Magic in Theory, revealed how psychology plays an important role in the performance of magic, including, for example, ways in which magicians manipulate an audience’s attention and reduce suspicion at key moments during a performance.

In addition, Prof Wiseman has carried out other related research, including a Wellcome Trust funded SciArt project, inverviews with illusionist Jeff McBride, and work uncovering the first ever film of a magician. Information about all of these projects can be accessed via the links on the left of this page.

 

External resources

Articles about the psychology of magic on BBC Online and in The Guardian.