Magic was seen as irrational and backward in the Age of Enlightenment from "summary" of Religion and the Decline of Magic by Keith Thomas
During the Age of Enlightenment, the prevailing intellectual climate was marked by a growing emphasis on reason, scientific inquiry, and empirical evidence. These values stood in stark contrast to the supernatural beliefs and practices associated with magic. Magic, with its reliance on charms, spells, and incantations, was viewed as irrational and superstitious by the enlightened thinkers of the time. Enlightenment thinkers believed that the universe operated according to natural laws that could be understood through observation and reason. Magic, on the other hand, was seen as a form of ignorant meddling with forces beyond human control. This perceived irrationality of magic was further compounded by its association with the past and with traditional beliefs that were slowly being eroded by the progress of science and technology. The Enlightenment thinkers saw themselves as champions of progress and enlightenment, seeking to liberate humanity from the shackles of ignorance and superstition. In their view, magic represented a backward and regressive force that hindered the advancement of knowledge and reason. The rationality and empiricism of the Enlightenment were seen as the antithesis of the mystical and occult practices of magic. Furthermore, the Enlightenment was characterized by a rejection of authority and tradition in favor of individual autonomy and critical thinking. Magic, with its reliance on ancient texts, rituals, and authorities, was viewed as a relic of a bygone era that had no place in the modern world. The Enlightenment thinkers sought to replace superstition with reason, magic with science, and ignorance with knowledge. In summary, the Age of Enlightenment marked a shift away from the supernatural beliefs and practices associated with magic towards a more rational and empirical understanding of the natural world. Magic was seen as irrational and backward in this intellectual climate, which valued reason, science, and progress above all else.
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