Urbanization and industrialization challenged traditional magical beliefs from "summary" of Religion and the Decline of Magic by Keith Thomas
The shift towards urbanization and industrialization during the early modern period had a profound impact on traditional magical beliefs. As societies became more urbanized and industrialized, people were increasingly exposed to new ideas and technologies that challenged their long-held superstitions and magical practices. The rapid growth of cities meant that individuals were no longer isolated within small, close-knit communities where magical beliefs could thrive unquestioned. Instead, they were now part of a larger, more cosmopolitan society where traditional beliefs were often viewed with skepticism and even ridicule. Furthermore, the rise of industrialization brought with it a new emphasis on rationality and scientific thinking. As people began to rely more on machines and techno...
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