Magic

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Magic (Medicine)

Magic (pronounced: /ˈmadʒɪk/) in the context of medicine refers to the use of rituals, symbols, actions, gestures, and language with the aim of utilizing supernatural forces to heal or prevent diseases. The etymology of the word "magic" comes from the Greek word "mageia" (μαγεία), which refers to the practices of Persian priests, known as magoi.

History

The use of magic in medicine has a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations. In Ancient Egypt, for example, priests and physicians often used magic as part of their healing practices. Similarly, in Ancient Greece, the god Asclepius was believed to have the power to heal through magic.

Types of Magic in Medicine

There are several types of magic used in medicine, including:

  • Sympathetic Magic: This type of magic is based on the principle of "like affects like." For example, a treatment might involve creating a model of a diseased body part and then treating the model in order to treat the actual body part.
  • Contagious Magic: This type of magic is based on the principle that things which have once been in contact with each other continue to act on each other at a distance after the physical contact has been severed.
  • Ritual Magic: This type of magic involves the use of specific rituals and ceremonies in order to invoke supernatural powers for healing purposes.

Criticism and Controversy

While magic has been used in medicine for thousands of years, it has also been the subject of criticism and controversy. Many modern medical practitioners and scientists dismiss magic as pseudoscience, arguing that it lacks empirical evidence and is not based on the scientific method. However, others argue that magic can have a placebo effect, helping patients to feel better through the power of belief and positive thinking.

See Also

References

External links

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