Manifestation and the Law of Attraction: Real or Pseudoscience?

Image Courtesy: Oprah Daily

In the age of social media, content introducing the practices of manifestation, the Law of Attraction, and affirmations have become increasingly popular, especially towards the demographic of young women. These videos supply the steps that promise to fulfill your desires whether it be money, relationships, etc. But how valid and accurate are these claims? Does manifestation really work?

So, what do all these words mean?

Manifestation is the idea that goals or ideas can appear in one’s life simply through affirmations, thoughts, and beliefs. These affirmations are phrases or statements that are to be repeated with the assuredness that they will come true. An example of an affirmation would be, “I am rich in relationships, wealth, and love.” or “I attract people and resources that I need in my life.” According to the Law of Attraction, if you exude positivity, through affirmations for example, then you will receive positivity in return. This can also apply to negative thoughts and feelings. This concept of attraction is based on the theoretical idea that humans and their respective thoughts are made of an “energy”. It is through this process that the energy attracts similar energy, thus bringing desires and goals to fruition.

Image Courtesy: Zoella

Does it really work?

Despite the ever-growing popularity of these practices, which began at the start of the recent millennium, skeptics have questioned the credibility of manifestation and the Law of Attraction. The 2006 film and book both titled The Secret, popularized these two practices, receiving a great deal of criticism and controversy from skeptics claiming that the film “has no basis in scientific reality, despite invoking scientific concepts.” Despite this, notable celebrities such as Oprah, Conor McGregor, and Larry King have expressed their praise for the publication. However, due to the lack of testability these practices provide, many have contributed that both manifestation and the Law of Attraction are based on pseudoscience. Something that is considered pseudoscience claims to be factual and scientific when in contrast, it is not compatible with the scientific method. Those who are said to have found success in manifestation or affirmations may have been influenced by other variables such as confirmation, publication, and/or selective bias. The psychological concept of the self-fulfilling prophecy may play a role in these belief systems as well.

Image Courtesy: Etsy

 Regardless of skeptics, many have said to have found success when utilizing manifestations. It is also important to note that whether these results are affected by the self-fulfilling prophecy or other variables, the importance and effects of incorporating positivity in one’s life cannot be discredited. Whichever path you choose to take in terms of practicing or not practicing manifestation and affirmations, keep in mind that exuding positivity and focusing on goals can be beneficial in many ways to one’s emotional and mental health no matter how you choose to do it.

Strike Out,

Writer: Jayna O

Editors: Breanna Tang & Lexi Fernandez

Tallahassee