There are 2 articles on this title. You are reading the article ranked and rated #1 by Helium's members.
In Chaos Magick we find a post-modern occult meta-paradigm which advocates a flexibility of mind and stands as the premiere out-of-the-box approach to esotericism. I use the term meta, meaning above or outside of, to indicate that this makes for a concept about concepts, or a paradigm concerning paradigms, or a belief about beliefs. Explained in the works of Peter Carrol such as Liber Null and Psychonaut, and based loosely on the techniques developed by 19th century magician Austin Osman Spare, Chaos Theory Magick appears to be a truly innovative way of thinking about Magick.
One of the most popular practices of this meta-paradigm is referred to as "Paradigm piracy." I found this to be a wonderful way to conceptualize something which I was already doing, but somewhat muddled about, before I had come across Chaos Magick material. you see, I have for a long time been a member of several occult orders and fraternities, and interested in many philosophies and ideologies which would seem to be sets of contradictory ideas.
Chaos Theory Magick blows holes in the assumption that there can ever be one true "right" way of thinking, positing that: "Nothing is true. Everything is permitted." This allows for what may be termed "Paradigm Piracy." Paradigm Piracy is the practice of using belief, not as an end in its self, but rather as a means to an end. By taking on and investing belief in any particular system of thought found useful to current goals, the Chaos Theory Magickian effectively uses belief as a tool, and controls it, instead of being controlled by it. the Chaote gives herself permission to switch belief systems (paradigms) at will. This may be difficult to wrap ones mind around at first, but makes for some very interesting speculation.
Chaos Magickians make for the agnostics of the occult world, valuing flexibility of mind. if you ask a Chaote whether or not she believes in god, you may recieve answers like: "What day is it?" "Why not?" "Not right now." "What will it get me?" etc. Paving the way for some of the most innovative and unorthodox magickal practices, Chaotes have been known to; use the Star Trek crew as a pantheon of gods, work within the H.P. Lovecraft fantasy world as a magickal paradigm, or use a coffee cup as a ceremonial chalice. These may be some of the most strange and creative folk you will ever meet.
For more information on the theories and methods of Chaos Magick, see the works of Peter Carrol, Phil Hine, and Robert A. Wilson.
Learn more about this author, Frater L.A..
Click here to send author comments or questions.
Below are the top articles rated and ranked by Helium members on:
by Frater L.A.
In Chaos Magick we find a post-modern occult meta-paradigm which advocates a flexibility of mind and stands as the pr... read more
Chaos magic functions as the agnosticism of the occult world. The chaos mage believes that belief is a tool for brin... read more
Add your voice
Know something about What is chaos magic?
We want to hear your view.
Write now!
Featured Partner
The Sunlight Foundation has partnered with Helium, giving you the chance to write for a cause. Browse Sunlight's...more
hide