After5Chicago - Behind the Illusion: The Psychology of Magic and Perception

A Conversation on Magic, Psychology, and the Secrets of Perception

Join a cognitive scientist, psychology professor, and professional magician for Behind the Illusion: The Psychology of Magic and Perception, a fascinating exploration of how our brains shape what we see, notice, and believe. Together, we'll uncover how magicians use misdirection to fool even the most observant people, why our minds overlook details happening right in front of us, and what these illusions reveal about the way we experience reality. Through interactive live performances, video demonstrations, and scientific insights, you'll discover the surprising connection between magic and the study of human cognition.

What We'll Cover:

• The Psychology Behind Magic - Explore how magicians use attention, expectation, and misdirection to create seemingly impossible illusions and influence what we perceive.

• Why Our Brains Miss What’s Right in Front of Us - Discover how our minds filter information, overlook important details, and make assumptions that can lead us to see things differently than they really are.

• What Magic Reveals About the Mind - Learn how the principles behind illusions have helped researchers study human attention, perception, and the ways our brains construct our experience of reality.

Whether you're fascinated by psychology, intrigued by illusions, interested in science, or simply curious about how the brain works, you'll leave with a new appreciation for the hidden processes that shape what you see and believe.

Don't miss this chance to connect with your After5Society!

About The Speaker:
Dr. Anthony Barnhart is an Associate Professor of Psychological Science at Carthage College, a cognitive scientist, and a professional magician with more than 30 years of performing experience. He earned his Ph.D. in Cognitive Science from Arizona State University and specializes in understanding how the human mind processes information, directs attention, and interprets what we see. His research explores the fascinating intersection of psychology and magic, investigating how magicians use techniques such as misdirection to influence attention, perception, and our assumptions about reality.

Dr. Barnhart’s work bridges the worlds of scientific research and live performance, using insights from magicians to investigate human cognition in laboratory settings. His research on the science of magic has been featured in national and international media, including WIRED and PBS NOVA. Through his teaching, research, and public speaking, he encourages audiences to question their assumptions, think critically, and discover the surprising ways our minds can be fooled. For Behind the Illusion: The Psychology of Magic and Perception, Dr. Barnhart brings a unique combination of scientific expertise and practical performance experience to reveal the psychology behind the seemingly impossible.

Good to know before you come:

• Exact bar location will be disclosed in your confirmation email
• Arrive early to grab a drink and get settled
• The speaker portion lasts 1 hour, with optional time to stay and socialize afterward
• This is a participatory event
• Seating is limited to keep the experience intimate