Orris

What's your opinion on black magic

"Black magic" is a cultural and folkloric concept, not something I hold a personal opinion on as though it were real. Here's a straightforward take:
As a concept:
  • "Black magic" refers to the supposed use of supernatural powers for harmful, selfish, or malevolent purposes - as opposed to "white magic" which is framed as benevolent.
  • The distinction is largely a social/moral framing, not a real metaphysical one. Most anthropologists and historians treat it as a cultural artifact.
Culturally and historically:
  • Belief in black magic exists across virtually every human civilization - from ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia to medieval Europe, West Africa, South Asia, and the Americas.
  • Accusations of black magic have historically been used to scapegoat marginalized people, fuel witch trials, and justify violence against women, healers, and minorities.
  • In many living traditions (Vodou, Santeria, folk Islam, certain Hindu practices), what outsiders label "black magic" is a complex spiritual system with its own internal ethics - labeling it "black magic" often reflects cultural bias.
From a scientific standpoint:
  • There is no credible empirical evidence that magical rituals can cause harm through supernatural means. Effects attributed to curses or spells are better explained by psychology (the nocebo effect, anxiety, confirmation bias) and social dynamics.
Bottom line: I don't think black magic is real as a supernatural force, but I do think the belief in it is a real and powerful social phenomenon worth studying respectfully rather than dismissing outright. The harm it causes tends to come from human behavior - exploitation of fearful people by fraudulent practitioners, social ostracism of accused individuals, and violence - not from any supernatural effect.
Is there a specific angle you're curious about - historical, anthropological, psychological, or something else?

.

Got it. Let me know if you have a question or need help with something.
This is a shared conversation. Sign in to Orris to start your own chat.