Friday the 13th: the superstitions and the skeptics | CBC News
The article by Kinsey Crowley in USA TODAY discusses the superstitions surrounding Friday the 13th, which can be especially eerie when it falls in October. This year features two occurrences of this date, with the next one not until September 2024. Dr. Phil Stevens, a retired anthropology professor, delves into the origins of this superstition, terming it “magical thinking.” Magical thinking involves believing in a causal relationship between unrelated things, and the combination of Friday and the number 13 takes on a unique quality when they coincide.
Stevens likens this superstition to a taboo, as it involves avoiding connections that could bring about unfortunate results. The fear of Friday the 13th is partly rooted in biblical history, where 13 people were present at the Last Supper of Jesus, which took place on a Thursday. The subsequent arrest and crucifixion of Jesus on a Friday further contributed to the superstition.
Despite the historical roots of this taboo, Stevens believes that it is gradually weakening as people embrace the number 13 more. He also emphasizes that superstitions, taboos, and lucky numbers are part of human nature, offering a sense of control in a complex and unpredictable world.
In summary, the article explores the superstition and fear surrounding Friday the 13th, delving into its origins in magical thinking and biblical history. It suggests that such beliefs provide comfort by offering a sense of control in a chaotic world.
#FridayThe13th #Superstitions #MagicalThinking #HumanNature #HistoricalOrigins