Does the US Congress Believe Magic is Real?

Did you know that the US Congress recently passed a resolution to “recognize magic as a rare and valuable art form and a national treasure”? Go ahead and google it and read the content of the resolution. Pretty creepy stuff. Mostly because of how it talks about magic:

“Whereas magic is an art form with the unique power and potential to impact the lives of all people;

“Whereas magic enables people to experience the impossible;

“Whereas magic is used to inspire and bring wonder and happiness to others;

“Whereas magic has had a significant impact on other art forms;

“Whereas magic, like the great art forms of dance, literature, theater, film, and the visual arts, allows people to experience something that transcends the written word;

“Whereas many technological advances can be directly traced to the influential work of magicians;

“Whereas magic fulfills some of the highest ideals and aspirations of our country by encouraging people to question what they believe and see;

“Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the House of Representatives— (1) recognizes magic as a rare and valuable art form and national treasure; and (2) supports efforts to make certain that magic is preserved, understood, and promulgated.”

The language of the resolution straddles the line between the concept of magic as a real thing and “magic” as illusion, sleight of hand, and entertainment.

For example, I have never heard of technological advances being directly traced to any magician, at least no advances of note. And magic in the sense of illusion/entertainment does not enable people to experience the impossible. It merely gives the impression that they are witnessing the impossible. Pretty clear distinction that you would think a ridiculous resolution like this would be careful to draw.

NB: Of course, we know sihr is real, but it is not something to be celebrated.