White magic is a concept often associated with good intentions and positive outcomes. It is considered to be the use of supernatural powers for benevolent purposes, such as healing, protection, and promoting harmony. However, there is a significant debate regarding whether practicing white magic is wrong or not. Those in favor of practicing white magic argue that it is a means of connecting with the divine and harnessing its power for good. They believe that white magic embraces love, light, and compassion, and can be used to bring positivity and happiness into people's lives. Proponents of white magic often emphasize that the intentions behind its practice are crucial, as long as the goal is to benefit others rather than harm them.
Tyson, himself a ceremonial magician and the author of thirty-one books, deftly describes the different components of ceremonial magic (the point, the ray, the circle, the triangle, and the cross), and discusses how to use tarot cards as substitutes for whatever a magician would normally use in the rites. Thus, three cards placed in the shape of a triangle represent a pyramid, and function to draw energy through the apex point; four cards in the shape of a cross stand for a ceremonial altar as the locus of interaction with the spirit world, and so on.
Emma s former Hertford student, novelist Alex Preston English, 1998 , interviewed her about Portable Magic in The Guardian listen to their conversation here from last year on The Hertford Bookshelf podcast. The author s use of tarot for magic is based on the tarot correspondences developed by the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn HOGD , founded in 1888 by freemasons and dedicated to studying and practicing magic for the betterment of humanity.
Proponents of white magic often emphasize that the intentions behind its practice are crucial, as long as the goal is to benefit others rather than harm them. On the other hand, opponents of white magic view it as a form of manipulation or interference with natural forces, regardless of the intentions. They argue that the use of supernatural powers, even for seemingly positive purposes, goes against the natural order of the universe and can have unintended consequences.
Emma Smith’s ‘Portable Magic’ 70,000th book added to Hertford library collection
Taking its title from a Stephen King quote describing books as “a uniquely portable magic,” Emma’s new book explores the life of the book as a material object, exploring the relationships they create between readers and the written word.
Portable Magic: A History of Books and their Readers joins the Hertford library collection as our 70,000th acquisition since we started accessioning the modern collection in 1968. It’s pictured here with the first page of the library accessions register which began as the newly refurbished library opened – this was the last time that the library underwent a major expansion. in the same year, around 90 new students matriculated; this year we had over 250 new undergraduate and postgraduate students start their courses with us.
The book, published last week, already boasts impressive reviews: “I lost count of the times I exclaimed with delight when I read a nugget of information I haven’t encountered before” wrote Val McDermid in The Times, while The Guardian described it as “a love letter to reading”. Portable Magic explores the relationship between books and readers over centuries. Many of the topics she discusses affect Hertford Library, from defining what actually counts as a book, to dealing with offensive material and censorship.
Hertford Library readers have been vital in shaping our collection by recommending book purchases that are on their reading lists, but also books they would like to have on their reading list. An example of this is our recent Liberation Collection, chosen by students to celebrate diversity and raise awareness of social inequalities.
Emma’s former Hertford student, novelist Alex Preston (English, 1998), interviewed her about Portable Magic in The Guardian – listen to their conversation here from last year on The Hertford Bookshelf podcast. You can also hear Emma discuss her book on BBC Radio 4’s Start the Week.
Professor Emma Smith has been a Fellow of Hertford since 1997 and has recently been elected as Pro-Principal to oversee our library redevelopment campaign. In the English Faculty she is Director of Teaching and Professor of Shakespeare Studies.
Emma Smith’s ‘Portable Magic’ with the first page of the Hertford Library Accessions RegisterSkeptics argue that instead of relying on magic, one should focus on practical solutions and ethical actions to bring about positive change. Nevertheless, it is important to note that the concept of magic, including white magic, varies greatly across different cultures, religions, and belief systems. What may be considered white magic in one society might be seen as black magic or witchcraft in another. The perception of whether practicing white magic is wrong or not ultimately depends on individual beliefs and cultural norms. In conclusion, the question of whether practicing white magic is wrong or not is subjective and open to interpretation. While some see it as a means of bringing positivity and healing into the world, others view it as interference with natural forces. Understanding and respecting different perspectives on this topic is essential to fostering a meaningful conversation..
Reviews for "White Magic and its Effects on Free Will: Examining the Moral Implications"
- Sarah - 1 star - I was really disappointed with "Is it wrong to practice white magic". I was expecting a thought-provoking and well-researched book on the topic, but instead, I found it to be full of cliches and shallow explanations. The author seems more interested in promoting their personal beliefs rather than providing any meaningful insights. I would not recommend this book to anyone looking for a serious exploration of white magic.
- John - 2 stars - I was not impressed with "Is it wrong to practice white magic". The writing style was overly simplistic and lacked depth. The author failed to present well-rounded arguments or engage with any opposing viewpoints, which made the book feel one-sided and biased. Additionally, I found it to be repetitive and lacking in original ideas. Overall, I found it to be a disappointing read.
- Emily - 1 star - "Is it wrong to practice white magic" was a big letdown for me. The book felt more like a collection of random thoughts and opinions rather than a cohesive exploration of the topic. The author's arguments and examples were weak, and I found myself questioning their credibility. I was hoping to gain a better understanding of white magic, but unfortunately, this book did not deliver. I would not recommend it.