Why We’re Still More Superstitious Than We Think
By Space Coast Daily // May 1, 2025
Superstitions are all around us, even if we don’t always realize it. Surely, with all our science and technology, most say, we should be less superstitious in the modern world. Yet, the reality is such beliefs remain prevalent in our lives. The superstitions are a huge part of our life, right from knocking on wood to wearing a lucky shirt. Superstitions influence the way we act and what we decide to do on a daily basis.
Why Do Superstitions Stick Around?
Superstitions are the belief that a particular action, act, or object can bring good or ill fortune, despite the lack of evidence. Most of these notions are based on ancient tales, culture, or mere merely inherited behaviors bestowed upon us by our parents and grandparents. Some examples of superstitious behaviors include avoiding number 13 or saying bless you when someone sneezes.
Our brains naturally look for patterns and connections, which is one reason why we tend to cling to these beliefs. When we experience a good thing after wearing a specific pair of socks, for example, we start thinking the socks contributed to the good result. It is particularly relevant in cases when we are unsure of the outcome of an event; a popular example is when people play Powerball and other games of luck. Despite the ever-so-slim likelihood of winning, plenty of players perform their own good luck rituals by selecting their numbers in a particular way or purchasing tickets from a specific retailer, then crossing their fingers that it pays off.
The Comfort of Rituals
Superstitions give us a false sense of security from the unpredictable. There is uncertainty in life and superstition makes one less anxious. Even knowing that you might not be just as lucky without it, performing a good luck ritual (think crossing your fingers or toting around a lucky rabbit’s foot) can bolster feelings of confidence and ease your anxiety about a high stakes event.
Superstitions are something that athletes are known to have more than anyone. Some tennis players have the same pre-serve routine every time, and some singers avoid wearing certain colors during performances. But these rituals keep them feeling sharp and ready.
Superstitions in Modern Life
Even non-superstitious people do small rituals without even knowing it. For example, it might be saying “knock on wood,” or keeping a lucky coin. They are so common that they have become part of our culture. Superstitions are not just about luck, though; they are also about connection to others—it is often shared beliefs —and about connection to tradition and cultural heritage.
Surprisingly, research also indicates that acting on those superstitions helps bolster confidence. We simply exert more effort and experience less anxiety if we believe a ritual will work. Perhaps this is why we find it so difficult to discard superstitions, despite knowing that they are not rational.
Conclusion
Superstitions are more than just silly beliefs. They help us deal with uncertainty, comfort us, and connect us to our culture and history. Whether we’re about to play Powerball or just hoping for a good day, our special good luck rituals remind us that we’re all looking for a little control in a world full of surprises.
