Occultism

Occultism, wide range of practices and theories based on belief in the supernatural; among them witchcraft, mind reading, astrology, divination, and telepathy. Definitions of occultism have changed over the years; certain occult practices are now considered to have a scientific base. Although occultism is generally repudiated by the scientific community, there has been much renewed popular interest in occult beliefs and practices.

See also: Parapsychology; Spiritualism.