The Science of Fiction Scientific Aspects of Magic in Harry Potter's World

Foundations of Science Natural Cause: The universe behaves in a predictable way under “rules” that can be determined through observation and experimentation. Uniformity: The “rules” are constant through space and time.

Foundations of Science Parsimony: All other things being equal, the simplest explanation is the best. Efficient Cause (not Final Cause) Objectivity

Scientific “Method” Observation Question Hypothesize Test & Observe Publish Repeat (as necessary) Theorize Publish Repeat (as necessary)

Assessing Science in Fiction Within the world of the work are there rules? are they applied consistently? In relation to the real world is there existing science or technology like this? is this something new? can it be investigated?

Harry Potter Author’s World magical ability is a genetic trait magic follows a set of natural laws magic can be investigated magic technology requires precise application magic is hidden from muggle science

Harry Potter Relation to our world hidden from & ignored by muggles would we notice? issues what are the “laws”? what are the “forces” involved? how does it interact with and effect what we already know?  gravity, electro-magnetics, atomic forces, thermodynamics, conservation of matter

Harry Potter Types of Magic Kinetic Transformative Psychic Creatures Methodologies Wand Incantation Potions & Powders Alchemy Charmed Objects Astrology

Harry Potter Kinetic Flight, Levitation, Unlocking spell Transformative Transfiguration, Platform 9¾, Invisibility, Diagon Alley, Sorcerer’s Stone, Photographs, Apparation Psychic & Biological Memory charm, Sorting Hat, Mirror of Erised, Divination, Binding Spells Creatures Ghosts, Goblins, Dragons, Fluffy, etc.

Harry Potter: Scientific Investigation Physics Thermodynamics: What is the source of magical energy? Conservation of Matter: What happens to matter when an object is transformed? Gravity: How is gravity counteracted? Light: How does light interact with invisible objects Astronomy: Why & how do the stars and planets impact magical abilities?

Harry Potter: Scientific Investigation Chemistry What is the chemical composition of a potion? Can potions be synthesized? How does the Sorcerer's Stone work? Biology Why are some humans capable of magic? Genetic markers Anatomy and physiology What happens when a person is transformed? How are thoughts “read”? What happens when a creature is “petrified”?

Looking at Fiction Is the author working in our world or a fictional one? Are there rules? Are they applied consistently? Reading: “Science of…” books Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal