The Guardian’s Alok Jha wrote an excellent article on magic.

First there’s shock tinged with disbelief. A moment of wonder follows. Then, a desperate scramble to rack your brains and work out just how you’ve been had. There’s no denying the effects of a good magic trick. From the great escapes of Houdini and the surreal mental trickery of Derren Brown to the conjurors at children’s parties, the appeal is universal.

Yes, that sounds like magic to me, too.

Lots of quotes from Magic Circle member Richard Wiseman, as well as Durham University psychologist Gustav Kuhn. Great article. Read it if you have a few moments.