Scientific rationalism undermined the credibility of magic from "summary" of Religion and the Decline of Magic by Keith Thomas
The rise of scientific rationalism in the early modern period challenged the traditional beliefs in magic that had been prevalent for centuries. As people began to embrace the principles of reason and empirical evidence, the credibility of magical practices came under scrutiny. The scientific revolution brought about a profound shift in the way people viewed the world and their place in it. The emphasis on observation, experimentation, and logical reasoning provided a new framework for understanding natural phenomena. This new approach to knowledge creation directly conflicted with the mystical and supernatural explanations offered by magic. By applying the scientific method to the study of the natural world, scholars were able to make significant advancements in fields such as astronomy, physics, and medicine. These discoveries helped to demystify many aspects of the universe that had previously been attributed to magical forces. As a result, the perceived effectiveness of magical rituals and spells began to wane. Furthermore, the growing influence of Protestantism also played a role in undermining the credibility of magic. The Protestant Reformation encouraged a more direct and personal relationship with God, which diminished the need for intermediaries such as priests and magicians. The emphasis on individual faith and moral conduct shifted the focus away from magical practices as a means of influencing supernatural forces. As scientific rationalism and Protestantism gained momentum, magic was increasingly viewed as superstitious and irrational. The reliance on empirical evidence and logical reasoning provided a more reliable and consistent framework for understanding the world. The decline of magic was not simply a result of changing intellectual trends, but also a reflection of broader societal shifts towards a more rational and secular worldview.
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