Magic, Medicine and the Placebo Machine




Ideas from CBC Radio (Highlights) show

Summary: Jay Olson performed his first magic trick when he was five years old. The former professional magician turned McGill University PhD student reveals how the power of suggestion can be used to help treat medical conditions. Central to his research is what he calls a 'placebo machine,' which he's been using to help migraine sufferers and children with disorders such as ADHD. This episode is part of our ongoing series Ideas from the Trenches, featuring innovative work by PhD candidates across Canada.