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Harvard University

Thinking Like a Magician - Joshua Jay - Radcliffe Institute

Harvard University via YouTube

Overview

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Explore the mind of a magician in this 56-minute performance-based lecture by globe-trotting illusionist Joshua Jay at Harvard University's Radcliffe Institute. Discover how magicians create seemingly impossible feats and learn to apply these strategies to your own life and work. Delve into techniques like guiding attention, framing perception, and staging surprise, gaining practical insights for creative pursuits. Witness Jay's signature sleight-of-hand illusions, including reverse logic demonstrations, misdirection techniques, and a world record routine. The lecture covers topics such as thinking like a magician, ring revelations, and concludes with an audience Q&A session. Gain a unique perspective on creativity and problem-solving through the lens of magic in this engaging Kim and Judy Davis Dean's Lecture in the Humanities.

Syllabus

Introduction by dean of the Radcliffe Institute, Tomiko Brown-Nagin
Reverse Logic
Misdirection Hands
Ring Revelation
Thinking Like a Magician
World Record Routine
Audience Q&A

Taught by

Harvard University

Reviews

4.0 rating, based on 1 Class Central review

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  • Profile image for Soane Tonga
    Soane Tonga
    This course surprised me in the best way. Joshua Jay isn’t just a magician—he’s a storyteller, a psychologist, and a master of perspective. Thinking Like a Magician dives into how magicians see the world differently, and it was full of “aha” moments. It made me rethink how people pay attention, get fooled, and how powerful misdirection can be—not just on stage, but in design, communication, and problem-solving. Super engaging, easy to follow, and packed with gems. If you’re into creativity or want to see the world differently, this one’s worth it.

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