What are 10 examples of superstitons that are scientifically related?

• What is a Superstition?

A superstition by nature is the opposite of science. As a belief in the supernatural or that which cannot be explained, superstitions are based around events and activities that allow something to happen without having any apparent link.

Superstition crosses a number of different cultures, from Christianity to voodoo, and it is most commonly found in people belief's of what is good luck and bad luck.

• Examples of Superstition

-If a black cat crosses an individual's path, it will cause that person to have bad luck before his/her journey ends. To rectify the 'curse' a person must take twelve steps backwards.

-If a person walks under a ladder they will have bad luck.

-While if you break a mirror, it is seven years bad luck.

-If you see a single magpie it will bring sorrow, but if you see two it will bring joy.

• Science and Superstition
  

Many people also relate superstition with stronger beliefs that can physically manifest themselves. While good and bad luck cannot be proven one way or another, some religious superstitions can be observed, yet have plausible explanations.

One of these in particular is stigmata, which is the inexplicable reproduction of bodily wounds and marks that correspond with those that Jesus suffered when crucified. The most common being bleeding palms.

Scientific research has indicated that stigmata is linked to hysteria, or split personality disorder. With those who 'suffer' from the ailment, starving themselves causing skin problems and also self-mutilating.

• Further Information

For more on Stigmata and other explanations to various superstitions, visit - www.skepticssa.org.au