Exploring magic's role in combating cyber-deception
Online fraud and deception present significant risks to society, especially in the realm of cybersecurity. This project investigates how principles of magic can inform new strategies for countering cyber-deception. Both magicians and hackers use social engineering to influence people’s actions, often leading individuals to reveal sensitive information or act against their own interests. Working with the Cyber-Ship Lab—a cutting-edge facility designed to test the security of modern ships—this project will examine how complex systems can be vulnerable to cyber-attacks. This lab provides an ideal setting to identify security gaps and develop defenses against cyber threats. Through this collaboration, we’ll explore questions like: What parallels exist between the art of magic and cyber deception? How can magic offer insights into cybersecurity, specifically regarding human susceptibility to manipulation? Why are people prone to deception, and how can magic make us more resilient to social engineering tactics? This interdisciplinary project will use a mixed-methods approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative research. It’s ideal for anyone interested in exploring intersections between magic, cybersecurity, and human behaviour. No prior experience in magic is required, as experienced magicians will be involved to support the research.
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Exploring the "magic" of advanced technology in AI
Arthur C. Clarke once said, "Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic." This insight highlights how innovations like AI and robotics can feel miraculous because they often go beyond everyday understanding. Historically, magicians have challenged perceptions of the possible. For example, the “Mechanical Turk,” a chess-playing automaton created in the 1780s, seemed to play against human opponents unaided. The Mechanical Turk was an elaborate magical illusion that transfixed the world for nearly 80 years and pushed the boundaries of what people imagined could be possible. At the MAGIC Lab, we’re expanding on this idea by programming a state-of-the-art robot to perform mind-reading tricks, testing the limits of AI’s capabilities. This project examines how these magical experiences influence people’s beliefs and trust in AI. Using a mixed-methods approach (both qualitative and quantitative), this interdisciplinary research is open to anyone interested in exploring the intersection of magic, AI, and human perception. No prior experience in magic is needed, as experienced magicians will be on hand to support the work.
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Magic for the Blind – Expanding the Reach of Wonder
Imagine a world without magic—or a world where magic is inaccessible to those who are blind. Most magic tricks depend on visual cues, which limits the ability of blind individuals to experience the enchantment of magic. This project explores why magic appears so closely tied to visual perception and aims to uncover the cognitive challenges of creating magic that can be experienced through other senses. Through this research, we will investigate why auditory-only magic is often less effective and explore differences in how people trust and interpret perceptual illusions when they are visual versus auditory. What impact does a lack of magic have on other beliefs and experiences? A core component of this project will be the creation of a specialized magic toolkit for blind audiences and performers, featuring magic tricks, guidelines for their performance, and tools to assess their effects on self-esteem and empowerment. This interdisciplinary project is open to anyone interested in the intersection of cognitive science, sensory perception, and the performing arts. No prior experience in magic is required, as we have skilled magicians who will provide guidance and support.
Enhancing creativity with placebo techniques inspired by magic
In times of uncertainty, creative thinking plays a vital role in promoting economic growth, improving living standards, and enhancing overall well-being. While research shows that certain instructions and mindsets can temporarily boost creativity, these effects vary significantly between individuals and tasks. This project explores a unique placebo approach by combining techniques from magic with a sham neuroscientific device to enhance creativity and cognitive performance. We aim to understand the nature of this placebo effect, how it might enhance creativity. The device also allows us to examine if other cognitive functions—like attention and cognitive control—can be influenced by similar methods. This interdisciplinary project will involve a variety of research methodologies, including cognitive tests, eye tracking, and EEG. Prior experience in magic is not necessary, as experienced magicians will be available to support the project.
Forcing and the illusion of free will
Humans make countless decisions daily and often take pride in being in control of these choices. However, our thoughts are easily influenced by external and internal factors, making us largely unaware of how effortlessly these thought processes can be shaped by others. This illusion of control is a crucial aspect of human cognition and has significant implications for everyday decision-making. Magicians have perfected techniques that exploit our cognitive biases and vulnerabilities in decision-making, particularly through "forcing" methods, which create the illusion of free choice. This project will investigate the psychological mechanisms that make such forces effective and the cognitive factors that leave us open to these subtle forms of influence. Research methodologies may include cognitive testing, eye tracking, and more. No prior experience in magic is necessary, as skilled magicians will be available to support the project.
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