The decline of magic coincided with the rise of organized religion from "summary" of Religion and the Decline of Magic by Keith Thomas
Keith Thomas explores the relationship between magic and religion in his book "Religion and the Decline of Magic". He observes a significant shift in societal beliefs and practices during the early modern period in Europe. As organized religion gained prominence, the practice of magic began to decline. This shift was not a mere coincidence, but rather a result of the changing cultural, social, and intellectual landscape of the time. The rise of organized religion, particularly Christianity, brought with it a new set of beliefs and practices that sought to establish a more structured and regulated system of worship. As a result, the once widespread belief in magic as a means of influencing the supernatural world began to wane. The authority of the church and its teachings superseded the perceived efficacy of magical rituals and spells. Furthermore, the rise of organized religion also led to a crackdown on practices deemed heretical or blasphemous by the church. Magic, with its associations with the occult and pagan beliefs, fell under scrutiny and was often condemned as incompatible with orthodox religious teachings. This further marginalized the practice of magic and contributed to its decline in popularity. In contrast, organized religion provided a more socially acceptable and culturally sanctioned framework for addressing spiritual and supernatural concerns. The rituals and ceremonies of the church offered a structured and authoritative means of connecting with the divine, which overshadowed the more individualistic and decentralized practices of magic.- Thomas argues that the decline of magic was not a direct result of organized religion, but rather a consequence of the changing religious, social, and intellectual climate of the early modern period. As organized religion gained dominance and authority, the practice of magic gradually lost its appeal and influence in shaping beliefs and practices related to the supernatural.
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