Misinformation, Magic, and Mendacity: Peeking Behind the Curtain to Explore the World of Deception

ABSTRACT With disinformation rising at alarming rates, we are experiencing a crisis of truth. Our commodified culture, political establishment, and media industries generate and disseminate false information in myriad ways, creating a world where it is difficult to ascertain what is actually real. Interestingly, many of us desire and are delighted by deception when it occurs as theatrical magic. In this paper, we examine various deception techniques used by tricksters in the realm of disinformation and magical entertainment. While many similarities exist, we note the manner and context of deception techniques—and the symbolic meanings they create—provide a clear contrast between the way deception is operationalized. To that end, we argue that a thorough understanding of deceptive practices can improve our digital literacy as well as enhance our ability to enjoy moments of enchantment and wonder.