The article discusses the importance of critical thinking, scientific skepticism, and humility in understanding the world, highlighting Carl Sagan's work and the challenges of overcoming cognitive biases and magical thinking in human nature.
Magical thinking, or the belief in the power of talismans and other objects, can play an important role in coping with health crises, especially when medicine and science can't provide a guarantee. Studies suggest that magical thinking can ease anxiety and uncertainty, and give people hope and a sense of control. However, becoming too attached to a talisman can have drawbacks, and it's important to ask oneself if it's helpful or not. Assigning good meaning to the object, using it mindfully, and taking it out at the right times are signs of healthy behavior.