Defense Against the Dark Arts

Science and mysticism. What and why we are afraid of and how brownies appeared in our homes. A new book from the author of the bestseller "Summa Biotechnology", which received the "Prosvetitel" award. A fascinating study filled with examples from various fields of knowledge for those who want to understand where the line is between science and mysticism, proven fact and charlatanism. When we encounter things and events that are beyond our understanding, we call it mysticism and attribute it to the action of otherworldly forces: from ghosts and brownies to demons and monsters. We are used to believing forecasts and performing a certain set of ritual actions in order to pass exams or attract good luck in a new endeavor. Alexander Panchin proves that most of our fears and mystical beliefs are caused by ignorance of the basic laws of physics, psychology and biology. Behind every mysterious riddle there is most often a scientific fact. So, the feeling of someone else's presence in the house, a tightness in the chest and an ominous premonition of your own death most likely does not mean that you have a poltergeist, but that the concentration of carbon monoxide in the house is excessive and you should immediately call the gas service. After all, restless thoughts, chest pain and hallucinations are clear signs of carbon monoxide poisoning.