Occult
From RationalWiki
The occult is a loose collection of quasi-religious ideas and beliefs, most revolving around ghosts, witchcraft, demons, spirits and other such woo.
The word derives from the Latin for "hidden", and there is the suggestion that the occult involves "knowlege" known only to those with special training or powers.
While many of the early scientists, such as Newton, were also Occultists, in modern times it is usually considered a pseudoscience. Notable 20th century occultists include Aleister Crowley, Gerald Gardner, and Anton LaVey. Some people really believe the kooky ideas, while others take them as entertainment. Whichever, they usually end up lighter in the pocket.
An example would be paying a "psychic" (or medium) to talk to dead relatives. This is pretty silly as it puts you under the influence of charlatans and confidence tricksters. To inquire about one's future success at work or in love, it can be amusing, and no worse than cheap therapy. However, far too many make life decisions based on the garbled obfuscations of people whose only motive is to line their pockets.
People seem to have a tremendous desire and ability to believe in the silliest things - watching the cast and guests of any episode of Ghosthunters is evidence of this. To the skeptic, the only reason to watch is to play the "lowest IQ in this segment" competition. They are convinced that places are haunted, and desperate to have their superstitious ideas confirmed by plumbers with a bunch of gear from Circuit City.
Other people, again straddling the entertainment/belief lines, are into casting spells and incantations. This can be as fun and harmless as putting on a play, or as ludicrous as thinking the act has real world meaning.
Most religions have an aspect of the occult, some more than others. They suggest or require belief in things without evidence or plausible mechanisms.
