It was the fact that the very American and surely wholesome Warner Bros, WB brand was selling Ouija boards that caught my attention.
Then it was the startling fact that they had Beetlejuice Ouija boards and The Exorcist ones. I have to admit, both are great movies for Ouija boards!
The Beetlejuice Ouija board is exclusive to WB and comes with a planchette, clear lens, three glide feet and instructions.
WB says it suits players aged eight and up.
Whereas The Exorcist has a glow-in-the-dark board and is only suitable for people aged fourteen and up.
Ouija controversies
Despite its seemingly innocuous presence as a parlour game, the Ouija board has a controversial history steeped in spiritualism and scepticism.
Spiritualism and Early Usage: The board emerged during the spiritualist movement of the late 19th century, a time when communicating with the dead was a popular pursuit. It was marketed as a tool for contacting spirits, and its popularity surged during World War I as grieving families sought solace and connection with lost loved ones. This connection with the occult and the potential for spiritual manipulation has led to ongoing religious and moral objections to its use.
Scepticism and Scientific Explanations: As with many spiritualist practices, scepticism abounds regarding the Ouija board’s efficacy. Critics attribute the board’s movements to the ideomotor effect, a subconscious phenomenon where individuals unintentionally move their hands, creating the illusion of external influence. This explanation is supported by experiments where participants are blindfolded, resulting in nonsensical messages.
Sensationalism and Moral Panic: The Ouija board’s notoriety was amplified by sensationalist news stories linking it to murders, suicides, and demonic possession. Often fueled by urban legends and religious anxieties, these tales contributed to a moral panic surrounding the board. This fear-mongering has led to bans in certain schools and religious institutions, further solidifying its controversial status.
Modern Perspectives: Today, the Ouija board occupies a curious space in popular culture. While some still believe in its spiritual potential, others view it as harmless entertainment or a psychological curiosity. Its history continues to be a source of fascination and debate, highlighting the complex intersection of belief, science, and sensationalism.
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