These historical patterns show us it is entirely human to turn to the supernatural, conspiracy, spiritualism and the occult in our effort to make sense of how new technology and media might change us, both individually and collectively. It is one big cope, to regain a sense of control in a time of uncertainty and difficulty.

I imagine there actually are plenty of things stopping you, as there were for me. The biggest thing is that if you grew up in a largely Westernized, secular materialist culture, there are massive mental blocks which prevent us from engaging with these topics. It's ironic that our preconceptions about how things are supposed to work prevent us from ... See more

Ritualization is a potent stabilizing agent, a simple salve for a stressful time if only we are mindful of how we use its powers.