Magic: The Basics is a concise and engaging introduction to magic in world history and contemporary societies. Presenting magic as a global phenomenon which has manifested in all human cultures this book takes a thematic approach which explores the historical social and cultural aspects of magic. Key features include: attempts to define magic either in universal or more particular terms and to contrast it with other broad and potentially fluid categories such as religion and science; an examination of different forms of magical practice and the purposes for which magic has been used; debates about magicâs effectiveness its reality and its morality; an exploration of magicâs association with certain social factors such as gender ethnicity and education among others. Offering a global perspective of magic from antiquity through to the modern era and including a glossary of key terms suggestions for further reading and case studies throughout Magic: The Basics is essential reading for anyone seeking to learn more about the academic study of magic. . Language: English