In 1921, the illusionist P T Selbit performed a magic trick that has since become a classic: he sawed his assistant in half. We’ve all seen it done dozens of times. We know it’s not real. Yet, we’re fooled every time. The deception appears impenetrable.
I’ve cut brains in half, excised tumours – even removed entire lobes. The illusion of the self and free will survives it all
Written by Christian Jarrett