Why I Chose This Book

I think this was one of the books I saw that was available on Overdrive and I might have seen it mentioned elsewhere as well. Either way, I gave it a shot.

The 7 Laws of Magical Thinking

The book The 7 Laws of Magical Thinking: How Irrational Beliefs Keep Us Happy, Healthy, and Sane by Matthew Hutson explores the ways in which we all engage in magical thinking, even though we know it is not based in reality. The author, a writer and contributor to Psychology Today, focuses on the concept of magical thinking, which refers to the belief that our thoughts, words, or actions can influence the world around us in ways that are not scientifically possible.

Hutson identifies 7 laws of magical thinking:

1. Objects carry essences: We believe that objects can carry with them the essence of their previous owners. For example, we might feel a connection to a favorite stuffed animal that we had as a child, even if it is now worn and torn. We might also believe that objects that have been used by celebrities are more valuable than similar objects that have not been used by celebrities.

2. Symbols have power: We believe that symbols can have power, which is why we use spells, ceremonies, and the law of similarity to influence outcomes. For example, we might wear a lucky charm to bring us good luck, or we might perform a ritual to ward off evil spirits.

3. Actions have distant consequences: We believe that our actions can have consequences that are far removed from the original action, which can lead us to use superstition to try to make luck work in our favor. For example, we might knock on wood to avoid bad luck, or we might avoid walking under ladders.

4. The mind knows no bounds: We believe that our minds are capable of things that are beyond our current understanding. For example, we might believe in telepathy, telekinesis, or other forms of extrasensory perception.

5. The soul lives on: We believe that our souls are immortal and will continue to exist after our bodies die. For example, we might believe in heaven, hell, or reincarnation.

6. The world is alive: We believe that the world around us is not just a collection of inanimate objects, but is instead full of life and energy. For example, we might believe in spirits, gods, or other supernatural beings.

7. Everything happens for a reason: We believe that everything that happens in our lives happens for a reason, even if we don’t understand that reason at the time. For example, we might believe that we were meant to meet a certain person, or that we were meant to go through a certain experience.

In the epilogue, the author presents the idea that the world is sacred, and proposes a secular spirituality. Hutson argues that magical thinking is not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, he believes that it can be a helpful way to cope with uncertainty and anxiety. He also argues that magical thinking can give us a sense of meaning and purpose in life.

However, Hutson also acknowledges that magical thinking can be harmful if it becomes too extreme. For example, if someone becomes so obsessed with their lucky charm that they can’t function without it, then it is a sign that their magical thinking has become harmful.

Conclusion

Overall, The 7 Laws of Magical Thinking is an interesting and thought-provoking book that explores the ways in which we all engage in magical thinking. The book aims to point out the flaws in human thinking, and encourages readers to think critically about their beliefs and behaviors.