Is Mentalism Real? Unmasking the Mind Readers: 10 Secrets Revealed [2024] 🤯

Video: Penn and Teller Reveal The Secret To Pulling Off A Mentalist Trick.







Is it magic, or is it mind-reading? 🤔 When a mentalist seems to predict your thoughts or control your actions, it’s hard not to be captivated by the impossible. But just how real is the mysterious world of mentalism? In this comprehensive guide, we peel back the layers of illusion to reveal the secrets behind the mind-bending tricks, the psychology that fuels it, and the legendary performers who have captivated us for centuries. Buckle up for a captivating journey through the world of mentalism, from its ancient roots to its impact on popular culture today.

While some mentalists might make you believe they are wielding supernatural powers, we’ll delve into the techniques, the ethics, and even the potential pitfalls of mentalism. So, whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, prepare to have your perception of reality challenged!

Quick Answer #quick-answer

Here’s the deal: Mentalism is a real art form, but it’s not about actual mind-reading. Mentalists don’t possess supernatural powers. Instead, they utilize skillful techniques rooted in psychology, observation, and misdirection.

Key takeaways:

  • Mentalism is not magic: It’s about manipulating perception and employing psychological principles to create illusions.
  • Mentalists rely on specific techniques: These include things like cold reading, hot reading, muscle reading, and misdirection—all carefully crafted to create the illusion of mind-reading.
  • The ethics of mentalism are crucial: Responsible mentalists are transparent about their methods and use their skills for entertainment, not exploitation.

**Want to explore the world of mentalism yourself? Check out our incredible collection of card tricks, coin and money tricks, and levitation tricks! **

Table of Contents

  1. Quick Tips and Facts
  2. The History of Mentalism: From Ancient Mysticism to Modern Stage Shows
  3. The Science Behind Mentalism: How Does It Work?
  4. Common Mentalism Techniques: Unmasking the Tricks
  5. The Psychology of Mentalism: How Our Minds Are Tricked
  6. Famous Mentalists: The Masters of Mind Control
  7. Mentalism vs. Magic: What’s the Difference?
  8. Is Mentalism Real? Debunking the Myths and Misconceptions
  9. Learning Mentalism: Can You Become a Mind Reader?
  10. The Ethics of Mentalism: When Does It Cross the Line?
  11. Mentalism in Popular Culture: From Movies to TV Shows
  12. Conclusion
  13. Recommended Links
  14. FAQ
  15. Reference Links

Quick Tips and Facts #quick-tips-and-facts

  • Mentalism is not actual mind-reading 🧠. It’s about creating a convincing illusion!

  • Observation is key 🕵️. Mentalists pay close attention to body language, subtle cues, and even breathing patterns.

  • Psychology plays a huge role. Mentalists exploit our natural biases and tendencies to create “mind-reading” effects.

  • Practice makes perfect 📚. Just like any skill, mentalism requires dedication and consistent effort.

  • We, at Mind Trick™, believe anyone can learn the fundamentals of mentalism. It’s about unlocking the power of observation and persuasion! 😉

The History of Mentalism: From Ancient Mysticism to Modern Stage Shows #the-history-of-mentalism-from-ancient-mysticism-to-modern-stage-shows

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Have you ever wondered where the fascination with mind-reading originated? 🤔 It’s a tale as old as time, weaving through ancient oracles, mystical seers, and cunning tricksters. Let’s embark on a journey through the ages to uncover the roots of mentalism:

Ancient Roots and Oracles: Where It All Began

Imagine a world shrouded in mystery, where whispers of prophecy echoed through temples and caves. In ancient civilizations, individuals claiming supernatural powers held immense influence. These were the oracles, often associated with deities and shrouded in ritual. Think Delphi in ancient Greece, where the Pythia, the priestess of Apollo, delivered cryptic pronouncements believed to be the will of the gods. While their methods remain debated, their impact on history is undeniable.

From Mysticism to Stage: The Birth of Entertainment

Fast forward to the 1800s, and the stage is set for a new kind of spectacle. The rise of spiritualism and séances ignited public fascination with the supernatural. Amidst the craze, performers began incorporating “mind-reading” acts into their routines. These weren’t mystical seers, but rather cunning entertainers skilled in observation, suggestion, and good old-fashioned trickery. This marked the transition of “mind-reading” from the realm of mysticism to the world of entertainment.

The Golden Age of Mentalism

The early 20th century witnessed the rise of legendary mentalists like Joseph Dunninger, known as “The Amazing Dunninger,” who captivated audiences with seemingly impossible feats. Dunninger’s radio show, where he challenged listeners to think of anything, solidified the public’s fascination with mentalism. This period also saw the emergence of Kuda Bux, an Indian mentalist who astounded audiences by performing seemingly impossible acts like burying himself alive and escaping. These pioneers elevated mentalism to an art form, paving the way for modern-day masters.

Interested in the psychology behind magic? Check out our insights on Magic Psychology.

The Science Behind Mentalism: How Does It Work? #the-science-behind-mentalism-how-does-it-work)

Video: Mentalism, mind reading and the art of getting inside your head | Derren Brown | TED.







While it often appears to defy logic, the “science” behind mentalism lies in a clever blend of psychology, keen observation, and carefully honed techniques. Let’s break down the components that give mentalism its seemingly magical edge:

1. The Power of Suggestion: Planting Seeds of Thought

Mentalists are masters of suggestion. They know how to subtly guide your thoughts and decisions without you even realizing it. Imagine a mentalist asking, “Think of a number between one and ten, but don’t tell me what it is.” It’s highly likely you’ll choose the number seven. Why? Because seven is statistically the most commonly chosen number in such scenarios! This is a simple example of how suggestion can make a mentalist appear to be reading your mind.

2. Reading You Like a Book: Nonverbal Communication Is Key

We communicate constantly, even when we’re not speaking a word. Mentalists are experts at deciphering body language. They observe micro-expressions, subtle shifts in posture, and even the way your pupils dilate to gain insights into your thoughts and emotions. These cues might seem insignificant to the untrained eye, but to a seasoned mentalist, they’re invaluable sources of information.

3. Misdirection: The Art of Illusion

Magicians use misdirection to create awe-inspiring illusions, and mentalists employ similar tactics for their mind-bending feats. By diverting your attention at crucial moments, they can subtly influence your choices or obtain information without you noticing. For instance, a mentalist might engage you in a lively conversation while subtly palming an object right under your nose!

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Common Mentalism Techniques: Unmasking the Tricks #common-mentalism-techniques-unmasking-the-tricks

Video: She didn't believe how I performed this MIND-BLOWING trick #magicians #magic #mentalist.






Ready to step behind the curtain and see how the magic happens? ✨ Let’s demystify some popular mentalism techniques, revealing the secrets that make these mind-boggling feats possible:

1. Cold Reading: Making Educated Guesses

Ever been to a psychic who seemed to know things about you they couldn’t possibly have known? This is often achieved through a technique called cold reading. Mentalists using this technique offer general statements that could apply to almost anyone. The key is to make these statements sound specific, often by observing your reactions and subtly tailoring their pronouncements based on your responses.

2. Hot Reading: A Little Help from My Friends 😉

While cold reading relies on broad statements, hot reading involves gathering information about the subject beforehand. This could involve anything from discreetly researching your social media profiles to enlisting a “confederate” who can subtly feed them information during the performance. Don’t be too quick to judge, though! Hot reading can be incredibly effective on stage and is often used ethically for entertainment purposes.

3. Muscle Reading: It’s All in the Touch 👋

Imagine a mentalist asking you to focus on a hidden object while gently holding your wrist. They seem to move guided by an invisible force, eventually unveiling the hidden treasure. This technique, known as muscle reading, relies on subtle, often subconscious, cues transmitted through your muscles. Even the slightest tension or relaxation in your hand can guide the mentalist toward the desired outcome.

Ready to delve deeper into the world of mentalism? Discover the secrets professional mentalists use in our comprehensive guide: Unmasking the Mind Reader: 10 Secrets of Mentalism for Beginners 2024 🤯

The Psychology of Mentalism: How Our Minds Are Tricked #the-psychology-of-mentalism-how-our-minds-are-tracked

Video: Mind Reading Trick Explained.







Mentalism isn’t just about clever tricks and techniques—it’s deeply rooted in the fascinating workings of the human mind. By understanding how our brains process information and make decisions, mentalists can exploit our cognitive biases to create mind-blowing illusions. Let’s explore some key psychological principles that contribute to the effectiveness of mentalism:

1. Confirmation Bias: Seeing What We Want to See

Our brains love patterns and seek to confirm our existing beliefs. Mentalists exploit this confirmation bias by presenting information in a way that aligns with our preconceived notions. For example, a mentalist might make a vague prediction about your personality. Because our brains tend to focus on information that confirms our self-image, we might remember the hits while conveniently overlooking the misses, further solidifying the illusion of genuine mind-reading.

2. The Forer Effect: It’s All About Me!

Have you ever noticed how horoscopes often seem eerily accurate? This phenomenon, known as the Forer Effect, occurs when we attribute personal significance to statements that are actually vague and widely applicable. Mentalists leverage this by using general statements that could apply to a broad audience, yet still feel personalized and insightful.

3. Priming: Setting the Stage for Influence

Like skilled directors setting the mood for a scene, mentalists use priming to subtly influence your choices and responses. They do this by exposing you to specific words, images, or even scents that subconsciously evoke certain thoughts and emotions. For instance, a mentalist might talk about the feeling of being underwater before asking you to choose a card. This seemingly innocuous prompt might make you more likely to select a card associated with water, like the Queen of Cups.

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Famous Mentalists: The Masters of Mind Control #famous-mentalists-the-masters-of-mind-control

Video: Master Mentalist Shows How The Mind Can Have Control And Power Over A Person's Body.







Throughout history, numerous figures have captivated audiences with their seemingly supernatural abilities, pushing the boundaries of what we believe possible. Let’s delve into the fascinating lives and careers of some of the most renowned mentalists in history:

1. Joseph Dunninger: “The Amazing Dunninger” 🎙️

Often hailed as the “greatest mentalist of all time,” Joseph Dunninger rose to prominence in the early 20th century. His weekly radio show, where he performed astounding feats of mind-reading over the airwaves, captivated millions and cemented his place in entertainment history. Dunninger’s legacy extends beyond his performances; he was a vocal critic of fraudulent psychics, emphasizing that his abilities stemmed from skill and showmanship, not supernatural powers.

2. Uri Geller: Bending Minds and Spoons 🥄

Uri Geller, an Israeli-British illusionist, captivated the world with his seemingly psychic abilities, primarily his signature spoon-bending trick. Geller’s performances sparked intense debate, with some believing in his paranormal powers while others dismissed his feats as clever illusions. Regardless of where you stand on the spectrum of belief, Geller’s influence on popular culture and his ability to spark conversations about the nature of reality are undeniable.

3. Derren Brown: The Psychological Illusionist 🧠

Derren Brown, a British mentalist and illusionist, is known for his captivating stage shows, television specials, and thought-provoking explorations of psychology and suggestion. Brown’s work often blurs the lines between entertainment and social commentary, using his understanding of human behavior to create compelling illusions and challenge viewers’ perceptions of reality.

Want to master the art of misdirection? Our collection of coin and money tricks will leave your audience speechless!

Mentalism vs. Magic: What’s the Difference? #mentalism-vs-magic-whats-the-difference

Video: Mentalism Street Magic! | JS MAGIC | BRAND NEW EFFECTS.







While mentalism and magic often share the stage and elicit gasps of astonishment, they represent distinct branches of the illusionary arts. Let’s break down the key differences between these two captivating disciplines:

Mentalism: The Art of the Mind 🧠

  • Focus: Mentalism centers around exploring the power of the mind, often creating the illusion of enhanced mental abilities like telepathy, precognition, and mind control.
  • Techniques: Mentalists rely heavily on psychology, suggestion, body language reading, misdirection, and carefully honed performance skills to create their illusions.
  • Presentation: Mentalism often adopts a more sophisticated and theatrical tone, often incorporating storytelling, psychological themes, and philosophical explorations into performances.

Magic: The Art of Illusion ✨

  • Focus: Magic revolves around manipulating physical objects and creating visually stunning illusions that defy the laws of nature.
  • Techniques: Magicians employ sleight of hand, specialized apparatus, optical illusions, and misdirection to create impossible-seeming feats.
  • Presentation: Magic performances can range from lighthearted and comedic to grand and awe-inspiring, often incorporating elaborate sets, costumes, and special effects.

In essence, mentalism aims to deceive the mind, while magic deceives the senses.

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Is Mentalism Real? Debunking the Myths and Misconceptions #is-mentalism-real-debunking-the-myths-and-misconceptions

Video: INSANE Mentalism Trick – READ MINDS – Magic Tricks REVEALED.







Ah, the age-old question that keeps us on the edge of our seats: Is mentalism really real? 🤔 Let’s unravel this intriguing mystery by addressing common myths and exploring the nuanced perspectives surrounding this captivating art form:

Myth 1: Mentalists Have Supernatural Powers ❌

Let’s set the record straight: Mentalism is not about supernatural powers. While some performers might cultivate an air of mystery or claim psychic abilities, the truth is far more grounded. Mentalism relies on a combination of skill, observation, psychology, and showmanship, not supernatural forces.

Myth 2: Mentalists Can Read Your Every Thought ❌

Contrary to popular belief, mentalists cannot actually read minds. They don’t have direct access to your innermost thoughts. Instead, they rely on subtle cues, body language, probability, and carefully crafted techniques to create the illusion of mind-reading.

Myth 3: Mentalism is Always Deceptive ❌

While mentalism often involves a degree of deception, it’s not always about pulling the wool over your eyes. Many mentalists are transparent about their methods, emphasizing that their performances are rooted in skill and entertainment, not psychic powers. In fact, some mentalists use their performances to educate audiences about critical thinking and the power of suggestion.

So, Is It Real? 🤔

Here’s the thing: mentalism is real in the sense that it’s a real art form, requiring dedication, practice, and a deep understanding of psychology and performance. However, it’s not “real” in the sense of possessing supernatural powers.

Ultimately, whether you approach mentalism as pure entertainment or as a thought-provoking exploration of the mind’s capabilities is up to you.

Learning Mentalism: Can You Become a Mind Reader? #learning-mentalism-can-you-become-a-mind-reader

Video: The Art and Science of Cold Reading – How to Be a Mentalist.







The allure of mentalism lies in its ability to make the impossible seem possible. But here’s a secret: you don’t need to be born with a sixth sense to dabble in the mind-bending world of mentalism! 🧠✨

Can Anyone Learn Mentalism?

The short answer is yes—with dedication, practice, and a willingness to learn, anyone can pick up the basics of mentalism and develop a repertoire of impressive tricks and techniques. Think of it like learning a new language or mastering a musical instrument. It takes time, patience, and consistent effort to hone your skills and become fluent in the language of the mind.

Where Do I Start?

  1. Start with the Fundamentals: Begin by exploring the basic principles of mentalism, such as:

    • Psychology and Human Behavior: Grasping how people think, make decisions, and respond to various stimuli is crucial for a budding mentalist.
    • Observation and Body Language: Develop your observational skills and learn to decode nonverbal cues like micro-expressions, eye movements, and subtle shifts in posture.
    • Suggestion and Influence: Explore the power of language and how subtle cues can influence thoughts and behaviors.
  2. Choose Your Area of Focus: Mentalism encompasses a vast array of techniques and specializations. Identify an area that particularly piques your interest.

    • Mind Reading: Focus on tricks and illusions that create the impression of telepathy, such as predicting thoughts or revealing hidden information.
    • Predictions: Develop techniques for seemingly predicting future events, such as the outcome of a coin toss or the card someone will choose.
    • Psychological Illusions: Explore the art of crafting compelling narratives and experiences that toy with perception and reality.
  3. Practice Makes Perfect (or at Least Pretty Darn Good!): Just like any skill, mentalism requires consistent practice to develop fluidity and confidence.

    • Start Small: Begin by practicing simple tricks and techniques on friends and family.
    • Record Yourself: Video recording your practice sessions can provide valuable insights into your performance and help you identify areas for improvement.
    • Seek Feedback: Don’t be afraid to ask for constructive criticism from trusted individuals to refine your act.

Resources for Aspiring Mentalists

Fortunately, there’s a wealth of resources available to help you embark on your mentalism journey:

  • Books: Delve into classic texts by renowned mentalists like Theodore Annemann, Corinda, and Bob Cassidy.
  • Online Courses and Tutorials: Explore the myriad of online courses and tutorials offered by experienced mentalists, often providing step-by-step instructions and performance tips.
  • Magic Shops and Communities: Connect with fellow magic enthusiasts and seek guidance from seasoned performers at local magic shops and online communities.

Remember, becoming a master mentalist is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the process, enjoy the challenges, and never stop exploring the fascinating world of the human mind!

The Ethics of Mentalism: When Does It Cross the Line? #the-ethics-of-mentalism-when-does-it-cross-the-line

Video: How To Master The Principle of Mentalism (Your Mind Shapes Reality).







Mentalism, with its ability to delve into the depths of the human psyche and manipulate perception, inherently grapples with complex ethical considerations. While at its core, mentalism is a form of entertainment, the fine line between illusion and exploitation can sometimes become blurry. Let’s navigate this ethical landscape by exploring potential pitfalls and outlining guidelines for responsible mentalism:

Mentalism often involves interacting with audience members on a personal level, perhaps even touching on sensitive topics or beliefs. As a responsible mentalist, it’s paramount to:

  • Obtain Consent: Always seek clear and enthusiastic consent before involving individuals in your act, especially when dealing with personal information or potentially sensitive subjects.
  • Respect Boundaries: Be mindful of personal space, cultural sensitivities, and individual comfort levels. Avoid prying into private matters or exploiting vulnerabilities for entertainment value.

2. Transparency and Deception: Finding the Right Balance ⚖️

Mentalism thrives on a degree of deception, but it’s crucial to strike a balance between entertainment and ethical considerations:

  • Avoid False Claims: Refrain from claiming genuine psychic abilities or supernatural powers. Instead, present your act as a form of skilled entertainment that relies on psychology, observation, and showmanship.
  • Disclose When Appropriate: In some contexts, such as educational settings or when dealing with vulnerable audiences, consider disclosing the methods behind your illusions to promote critical thinking and avoid fostering false beliefs.

3. Avoiding Harm and Exploitation: Do No Harm 🙏

Mentalism should never be used to cause harm, emotional distress, or financial exploitation:

  • Be Mindful of Your Audience: Consider the potential impact of your act on different individuals and demographics. Gauge the emotional temperature of the room and adjust your performance accordingly.
  • Refrain from Manipulation: Avoid using your skills for personal gain or to deceive individuals in a way that could result in financial loss, emotional distress, or reputational damage.

4. Promoting Critical Thinking: Mentalism as Education 🤔

Mentalists have a unique opportunity to use their craft to educate audiences about the power of suggestion, the fallibility of perception, and the importance of critical thinking.

  • Debunk Myths: Consider incorporating segments into your act that debunk common myths about psychic abilities and paranormal phenomena.
  • Empower Your Audience: Leave your audience with a sense of wonderment while also encouraging them to question what they see and think critically about the world around them.

By adhering to ethical guidelines, mentalists can ensure that their art form remains a source of entertainment, wonder, and intellectual stimulation.

Video: Mind2Mind's Psychic Powers Leave The Judges in Shock | AGT 2022.







Few things captivate our imaginations like the prospect of unlocking the secrets of the human mind. It’s no surprise, then, that mentalism has woven its way into the tapestry of popular culture, enthralling us through movies, television shows, books, and beyond. Let’s take a captivating journey through the realm of mentalism in popular culture:

Mind-Bending Movies: Lights, Camera, Mentalism! 🎬

  • The Illusionist (2006): This visually stunning period drama, starring Edward Norton, follows a mysterious magician who uses his powers to reunite with his lost love. While grounded in traditional magic, the film explores themes of perception, illusion, and the captivating power of the unknown, echoing elements of mentalism.

    👉 CHECK PRICE on:

  • Now You See Me (2013): This action-packed thriller follows a group of illusionists who pull off elaborate heists while toying with the FBI. While the film features grand illusions, the characters’ ability to manipulate perceptions and predict behavior aligns with the core principles of mentalism.

    👉 CHECK PRICE on:

  • The Prestige (2006): This Christopher Nolan masterpiece delves into the bitter rivalry between two magicians obsessed with creating the ultimate illusion. The film explores themes of obsession, sacrifice, and the lengths to which people will go to achieve greatness all set against the backdrop of illusion and the human desire for wonder.

    👉 CHECK PRICE on:

Television’s Mind Masters: Mentalism on the Small Screen 📺

  • The Mentalist (2008-2015): This popular crime drama follows Patrick Jane, a former psychic who uses his keen powers of observation and psychological manipulation to assist law enforcement in solving crimes.

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  • Psych (2006-2014): This quirky and comedic detective series features Shawn Spencer, a hyper-observant consultant who pretends to be a psychic to help the Santa Barbara Police Department solve crimes.

    👉 CHECK PRICE on:

These films and TV shows, while often fictionalized, offer a glimpse into the captivating world of mentalism, sparking our curiosity and challenging our perceptions of reality. They remind us that the human mind is a powerful and endlessly fascinating enigma, capable of both extraordinary feats and remarkable vulnerability.

Conclusion #conclusion

group of women standing on rock fragment

So, is mentalism real? The answer is…it depends! 🤯 Mentalism isn’t about actual mind-reading or supernatural powers. It’s the art of skillfully using psychology, observation, and well-practiced techniques to create the illusion of extraordinary mental abilities. It’s about understanding the human mind and utilizing those insights for entertainment and wonder.

We’ve explored the history, science, techniques, and even ethical considerations surrounding this captivating art form. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, there’s no denying the powerful allure of mentalism and its ability to challenge our perceptions of reality.

It’s a testament to the boundless creativity and ingenuity of the human mind that we can pull off these seemingly impossible feats—and that’s what makes mentalism such a captivating art form. 💯

👉 Shop these incredible mentalists and their products online:

Books to Expand Your Knowledge:

  • The New Mentalism: A Comprehensive Guide: Amazon
  • The Art of Mentalism: An Introduction to the Classic Techniques: Amazon
  • Modern Mentalism: Techniques and Methods for the Modern Magicians: Amazon

FAQ #faq

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Is being a mentalist a real thing?

Mentalism is a real thing, but it’s not about actual mind-reading. It’s about using skillful techniques and psychology to create illusions. It’s about the power of observation, suggestion, and performance.

Read more about “How Do You Make Someone Do Something Psychology? … 💡”

How does a mentalist read minds?

Mentalists don’t read minds in the traditional sense. They use techniques like cold reading, hot reading, muscle reading, and misdirection. These skills create the illusion of mind-reading by utilizing psychological principles and subtly observing audience reactions.

1. Cold Reading:

Cold reading involves making general statements that could apply to many people, allowing the audience to find personal meaning within them. 

2. Hot Reading:

Hot reading involves gathering information about the audience beforehand through research or discreetly obtaining information during the act, often using a "confederate." 

3. Muscle Reading:

Muscle reading involves observing subtle, involuntary movements and reactions in an individual's muscles, often through touch, to gain clues to their thoughts and responses. 

4. Misdirection:

Misdirection focuses on diverting the audience's attention away from crucial elements of the trick, allowing the mentalist to subtly manipulate information or choices without being noticed.   

Read more about “Unmasking the Mind Reader: 10 Secrets of Mentalism for Beginners … 🤯”

Is it possible to study mentalism?

Absolutely! You can learn the fundamentals of mentalism yourself. It’s a skill that can be developed through dedication, practice, and a willingness to learn. Find resources online, explore books by legendary mentalists, and even connect with local magic communities for guidance.

Read more about “Mentalism in Psychology: Unmasking the Mind’s Tricks 🧠 …”

What is the secret behind mentalism?

The core “secret” behind mentalism is a combination of psychological understanding, meticulous observation, and skillful manipulation of techniques. Mentalists are masters of human behavior, adept at using suggestion, nonverbal cues, and misdirection to create the illusion of mind-reading.

Read more about “Can Your Mind Trick You Into Thinking Things? … 🤯”

We hope you enjoyed this deep dive into the fascinating world of mentalism! What other mind-boggling illusions should we explore in the future? 🎉

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