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Do you like magic tricks?

I don't think I really understand anyone who says no to that question.

First, magic is harmless.

We all know it's just a show.

Second, it's astonishing.

A good trick is like witnessing a glitch in the universe. It's so alluring to see the impossible performed right in front of us. Add in a good story, some master showmanship,

and a magic act can be intoxicating. But that's a problem. These magicians, they've honed

the craft of fooling us so convincingly. We begin to doubt reality. They're such good manipulators

that we're willing to go along the path they've laid out for us, step right into the traps

they've set, and then applaud them for making what is essentially an outright lie seem so fun.

Those skills in the wrong hands could lead to no good. Some of us were more trusting than others.

Some more hopeful.

Some were desperate.

All tempting targets for conniving charlatans.

But if these people have perfected the art of deception, how are we to uncover the truth about their malicious motives?

Well, in today's Saturday matinee, we bring you an episode from the podcast, Trapped History,

one that focuses on the man who fought fire with fire, magician and skeptic James Randy.

His mission to expose the fakes, debunk the paranormal, and champion the truth.

I hope you enjoy.

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