Record numbers of young women are dabbling in witchcraft, fuelling a boom in sales of spell books and other pagan paraphernalia, according to new research.
A study of teenagers and their consumption of books, magazines, kits, film and other media found that there are some 700,000 internet sites for teenage witches. The Pagan Federation claims to have several hundred inquiries a week from young people, and has set up a network for those under 18.
"There has been a noticeable rise in the number of young people identifying themselves as witches," said Denise Cush, professor of religious studies at Bath Spa University.
The trend is being boosted by American TV series such as Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Charmed and Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
Yesterday, several hundred witches gathered in south London for Witchfest, held at the Fairfield Halls in Croydon..........[continued]
'I believe in an immortal soul. Science has proved that nothing disintegrates into nothingness. Life and Soul therefore cannot disintegrate into nothingness, and so are immortal.'
Witchcraft casts spell on young
It's the feminist-friendly religion, claim its growing number of adherents
By Roger Dobson and Lauren Veevers
Published: 20 May 2007
Record numbers of young women are dabbling in witchcraft, fuelling a boom in sales of spell books and other pagan paraphernalia, according to new research.
A study of teenagers and their consumption of books, magazines, kits, film and other media found that there are some 700,000 internet sites for teenage witches. The Pagan Federation claims to have several hundred inquiries a week from young people, and has set up a network for those under 18.
"There has been a noticeable rise in the number of young people identifying themselves as witches," said Denise Cush, professor of religious studies at Bath Spa University.
The trend is being boosted by American TV series such as Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Charmed and Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
Yesterday, several hundred witches gathered in south London for Witchfest, held at the Fairfield Halls in Croydon..........[continued]