Final answer:
New Age movements vary in their attitudes towards magic and esoteric wisdom, with New Thought actively discouraging occultism. Historical interplay between religion, magic, and society shows a complex web of beliefs and practices that have often led to conflict.
Step-by-step explanation:
New Age movements often discuss subjects like magic and esoteric wisdom, but their attitudes towards these topics can be complex. For example, while both New Age and New Thought movements emphasize mysticism and the pragmatic application of mystical insights to daily life, New Thought specifically discourages involvement with occultism. This might suggest some level of skepticism or hostility towards traditional magical practices within that particular movement.
Historically, many religious and spiritual traditions have intertwined with what some call 'magic' or 'esoteric' practices. The use of curse tablets, appeals to the supernatural, and the role of magic in addressing conflict and desire in societies are all historically documented. Additionally, the intersections of religion and magic have often led to conflict, as seen in the early Christian struggles to distance themselves from 'pagan' practices and the complicated relationship they had with the belief in spirits and magic.
It is important to note that there are a variety of attitudes towards these subjects within different New Age movements, and generalizations do not necessarily apply to all practitioners or groups within these movements.