What Is MathemaGical Thinking?

“Magical Thinking: The belief, especially characteristic of early childhood and of many mental illnesses, that thoughts, wishes, or special but causally irrelevant actions can cause or influence external events; thinking founded on this belief.”

“Mathematical Thinking: The belief, especially characteristic of scientists, that events can be understood, described, and predicted using mathematical equations; thinking founded on this belief.”

“MatheMAGICal Thinking: The belief that mathematics, like magic, can be used to confuse, impress and hoodwink just as much as it can to amaze and illuminate; a book based on this belief.”