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How magicians control your mind (boston.com)
26 points by robg on Aug 6, 2008 | hide | past | favorite | 11 comments



Interesting topic, but the article is unfortunately almost completely lacking any real information! It's basically a tease.

Would be really interesting to see more in depth writing on the subject though.


If you're really interested in it, there is a psychology book out there that's actually a great basis for getting started:

Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert Cialdini:

http://www.amazon.com/Influence-Psychology-Persuasion-Busine...

It's marketed as a business / marketing book, but it is probably on the book shelf of every one of the magicians / mentalists that this article refers to.


I agree.

I also felt the same way about this TED talk: http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/keith_barry_does_brain_ma...

It raised the topic in a very entertaining way, but never went beyond that.


that's awesome... my favorite magic trick is this one:

http://www.penguinmagic.com/product.php?ID=1703

The video demo is pretty incredible.


The problem with the video demo for this particular trick--indeed, the video demo for virtually ANY trick--is that you're seeing the best-possible performance. Don't get me wrong; I've seen this stunt performed in person, and it's pretty impressive. But I do consider this to be a compendium of best-possible outcomes, with a willing audience and a very skilled magician.


True he's very good, but the dvd is him teaching how to do it. I'm not as good as he is, but I've fried people with it.


We're getting into "Not Hacker News" territory, but if you're into Luke Jermay, I'd recommend checking out Wonder Words; it's got some interesting tools in it. It's a bit dated at this point, but makes for a good foundation. You also have to remember that Kenton used to run around dressed like a wizard.


Cool I'll check it out.



That was one of the most disgusting versions of that trick I've ever seen. Also, given how small the boxes are, one of the more nimble assistants.


I'm sorry to say I can't help but think of Blaintology.




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