
Is it Magic or just Spicy Psychology?
From The Irish Pagan School Podcast by Lora O'Brien & Jon O'Sullivan
February 25, 2026 · 28 min · Season 5 · Episode 3
About this episode
Jon O’Sullivan explores the question of whether magic is real or just a blend of psychology and ritual through the lens of Irish Paganism.
Send us Fan Mail 🔗 FREE LEARNING RESOURCES FOR A YEAR❗ - https://irishpagan.school/free Is magic real, or just a spicy blend of psychology and ritual? Join Jon O’Sullivan as he explores this modern question through the lens of Irish Paganism. We unpack Crowley’s definition of magic—“using natural forces to create change in accordance with one’s will”—and examine everything from candle-lighting traditions to placebo effects, neuroplasticity, and ritual intention. Gain clarity and confidence o...
People in this episode
Host: Jon O’Sullivan
Topics covered
- magic
- psychology
- Irish Paganism
- ritual
- placebo effect
- neuroplasticity
Keywords
- magic
- psychology
- ritual
- placebo effect
- neuroplasticity
- Irish Paganism
- Crowley
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Irish Paganism
More episodes of The Irish Pagan School Podcast
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- Why Did Jon Say No to the Morrigan? · May 20, 2026 · 25 min
- The Life and Death of Irish Gods · May 13, 2026 · 17 min
- Does Studying at the Irish Pagan School make you Pagan? · May 6, 2026 · 23 min
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