Science of the Magical: From the Holy Grail to Love Potions to Superpowers

by Matt Kaplan

"From the author of The Science of Monsters, this engaging scientific inquiry provides a definitive look into the elements of mystical places and magical object--from the philosopher's stone, to love potions to the oracles--from ancient history, mythology, and contemporary culture. Can migrations of birds foretell our future? Do phases of the moon hold sway over our lives? Are there sacred springs that cure the ill? What is the best way to brew a love potion? How do we create mutant humans who regenerate like Wolverine? In Science of the Magical, noted science journalist Matt Kaplan plumbs the rich, lively, and surprising history of the magical objects, places, and rituals that infuse ancient and contemporary myth. Like Ken Jennings and Mary Roach, Kaplan serves as a friendly armchair guide to the world of the supernatural. From the strengthening powers of Viking mead, to the super soldiers in movies like Captain America, Kaplan ranges across cultures and time periods to point out that there is often much more to these enduring magical narratives than mere fantasy. Informative and entertaining, Science of the Magical explores our world through the compelling scope of natural and human history and cutting-edge science."--

• ISBN10: 1476777136
• ISBN13: 9781476777139
• Publish Date: 27 October 2015
• Publish Status: Active
• Imprint: Scribner Book Company
• Format: eBook
• Language: English

Reviews

[MurderByDeath]

This engaging scientific inquiry provides a definitive look into the elements of mystical places and magical objects—from the philosopher’s stone, to love potions to the oracles—from ancient history, mythology, and contemporary culture.   I'm not sure what I was expecting, but this wasn't quite it, I guess.  I don't think it's the book's fault though; the writing was engaging and it's just what it says on the label: a look at all the ways our superstitions, myths, heroes and superheroes are so often rooted in science.     

Kaplan did his research (all of which is excellently documented in a Notes section at back) and when he speculates, he says he's speculating.  Some of the information is downright fascinating too (I had no idea ravens and wolves are so linked in nature).  

If I was disappointed by anything in the book it's the casual assumption that you have to separate faith from science, but this is such a common misconception anymore I've come to expect it.   So, the book is good; I just didn't get sucked in the way I thought I would when I saw a book about two of my favourite subjects.  Was worth reading though.