Bunk!

James Randi the occult-debunker (he of the famous million dollar challenge to anyone who can prove they have supernatural or superhuman powers) has put the full text of his occult-debunking encyclopedia online for all to see.

“When I decided to place the entire text of “An Encyclopedia of Claims, Frauds, and Hoaxes of the Occult and Supernatural” on the Internet, it was suggested to me that this could cut into the sales of the printed version. However, experience has shown that, in the publishing business, making a book available on the Internet only stimulates sales of the actual book! Another mystery.”

I of course went right to “W” and saw what he had to say about Wicca/Witchcraft:

“In modern times, witchcraft has been construed as a naturalistic religion of sorts, attributing spirits of all sorts to trees, rocks, clouds, and almost all ?natural? objects. Incantations are used to try to bring about desired events, and in general it is a harmless distraction for otherwise idle persons to embrace.”

Also his historical sources seem to be quite flawed:

“The name Beltane derives from Baal, the name of an early Semitic fertility god of decidedly priapic nature. X-rated.” (from the Walpurgis Nacht entry)

Anyone who has studied Celtic history for more than a week knows that Beltane isn’t derived from “Baal”. So he is either sourcing Christian propaganda (where everyone LOVES Baal!) or a bit too much of the poetic myth.

In any case a diverting site if you like reading snark about Bigfoot (and who doesn’t). Thanks to Boing Boing for the link!

Tags: Neopaganism