Unified Magic: a Manifesto

Date: 226 Age of Chaos

Author: Unified Magic Society of Udroth

A vast majority of people inhabiting Udroth have a set of practices, known as “magic”, although the views on the phenomenon are fundamentally different in various cultures. This diversity of approaches stems from the inherent complexity and diversity of its manifestations. To address this difficulty, we shall define magic as follows: manipulation of the spirit world by a conscious being.

Throughout history magic was studied either only empirically, or only through the prism of theology, attempts at understanding the underlying metaphysics being almost nonexistent. Ergo, the field is rather stagnant: while metallurgy, agriculture, and other crafts have experienced outstanding development even in the last centuries, magic traditions have been subject to only slight alterations since before recorded history.

We call for a combined approach to study of magic: theology would allow prediction of new spells and rituals, and empiricism shall show, which metaphysical theories are adequate for the purpose of development of magic tradition.

Most previous attempts at constructing a theory of magic have failed due to their creators being excessively attached to views dictated by their theological views.

But as magical crafts are successfully practiced in all religions of Udroth, it seems that all faiths have captured a part of truth about the inner workings of reality. Therefore, a theory of magic cannot be constructed without the presence of representatives of different confessions. Together, they would be able to construct a metatheology by comparing various views without the prejudices of classical religion.

Hereby, we proclaim the Unified Magic Society of Udroth, may it find success in its endeavor.