Magic is the claimed art of altering things either by supernatural means or through knowledge of occult natural laws unknown to science. Magic has been practiced in all cultures, and utilizes ways of understanding, experiencing and influencing the world somewhat akin to those offered by religion, though it is sometimes regarded as more focused on achieving results than religious worship. Magic is often viewed with suspicion by the wider community, and is commonly practiced in isolation and secrecy. Modern Western magicians generally state magic's primary purpose to be personal spiritual growth, many seeing magic ritual purely in psychological terms as a powerful means of autosuggestion and of contacting the unconscious mind.[citation needed] Modern perspectives on the theory of magic broadly follow two views, which also correspond closely to ancient views. The first sees magic as a result of a universal sympathy within the universe, where if something is done here a result happens somewhere else. The other view sees magic as a collaboration with spirits who cause the effect.

Fliptop, I am impressed! I just activated your account not even ten minutes ago! Way to go!

Your analysis of magic is certainly scientific and quantifying. Magic as we know it falls into the categories you described. Certainly this definition of magic is helpful. However, what about the magical systems which others create? Do all systems that are called magic fall into your definition? Or would you say all other magic-like systems should have a different name, like land-law or cobha, etc.?

Well done Fliptop on an insightful definition of magic. I think you'll find that your definition is not that different from those mentioned in the "Magic" thread. You might also find the Cobha thread interesting. Also, as a new member with interest in this discussion, I think you'll find that our Guidelines for Discussions in the Magic Forum will help you see our preferred direction for discussions in this room of the forum. It's been the experience in the past that broad discussions about the concept of magic in general tend to lead to looooooooong, repetitive threads. Clearly that wasn't your intent in this thread, but to help prevent that from happening, I'll be locking this thread and asking that any who wish to continue this conversation do so by pm. Thank you though for sharing your definition of magic with us, you certainly did a fine job of describing it.
In Christ,
Jordan aka Seer

Wikipedia is a good source of information sometimes, isn't it? Astonishing how often they get it right.