Magical thinking is a term used by people to describe superstition. People believe that magic is more like science that religion and that cultures that had magic as a part of their society had their religious parts separate.

Magic is similar to science in that it deals with casual relations but differs in the sense that it deals with causes and not connections. The law of similarity and the law of contagion are the two fundamental thinking processes of magic.

Magic was typically used, and still is, to explain occurrences that science could not. A common belief among magic believers is that one can create causes in things either in a good way or a bad way thus creating the good and bad luck effect.

Some scientists believe that magical thinking is inherent to humanity and there is a lot of scientific evidence to support this idea. Examples such as people refusing to believe in other things if their beliefs do not allow it, and asking of confirmation of a hypothesis back up this theory.

Clinical depression or OCDs can be intensified with magical thinking. With depression this type of thinking can be used to create positive vibes. Many of today’s alternative and complementary treatments rely on some magical factors to aid the theory and healing process. For example, homeopathy relies on the theory where like should be treated with like, which is a fundamental process of magical thinking. Many popular belief systems also incorporate a form of magic somehow.

It is very difficult to measure exactly what kind of effect magical thinking may have on an individual and it varies from person to person. It may be that someone has been exposed to such treatments and is using other alternative approaches to help them heal completely. It may also be that someone has tried it out and does not feel better with any change made. Magical thinking can deal with issues such as self-confidence and other psychological influences on someone’s mind, body and soul. It can be a very complex affair especially if it is a group of magical thinkers that believe in some or all the same theories. There are such societies around the world that think in this fashion, even today. It does not have to be that complex however as simple things like wearing a lucky charm or seeing your favorite number or color is also a form of magical thinking.