The irrational and uncanny
Spirituality and religion
idea
UFO belief is a modern outlet for ancient spiritual yearnings
Even when it’s not explicitly religious, belief in alien visitors resembles our oldest ways of making sense of the world
by Francesco Dimitri
Laughter and comedy
idea
Absurdist comedy is uniquely brilliant at conveying human pain
On stage as Mr Fruit Salad, I’ve seen how the bizarre and ridiculous can convey deep meaning in a way that resonates
by Joz Norris
Dance
film
A darkly playful dance of shadows, surreal visions and transformation
Directed by Douglas Bernardt
The nature of reality
idea
For neuroscience, magic opens a doorway to multiple realities
The transition in magic from possible to impossible can answer some of the key questions in philosophy and neuroscience
by Luis M Martínez & Jordi Camí
Altered states
idea
Déjà vu is just one of many uncanny kinds of déjà experiences
What can the many types of déjà experiences that most people have tell us about reality, memory and the gaps in between?
by Art Funkhouser
The nature of reality
film
An animated figure’s world grows enigmatic when he begins to doubt reality
Directed by Jeong Dahee
Altered states
film
An odyssey into the Parisian night reflects the allure and anxieties of cities
Directed by Adrien Mérigeau
