Last Podcast On The Left
Last Podcast On The Left
"The Ouija board is probably the most popular. This is something that I have no doubt that a majority of our listeners have used at one point in their lives." — Henry Zebrowski
"The thing about the Ouija board is it really is it about how seriously do you take your own mind?" — Henry Zebrowski
"The prevailing opinion among a cultist is that the Ouija board isn't either a good nor evil object. It's only a gateway, and whatever comes through is your business." — Marcus Parks
This episode meticulously traces the history of the Ouija board, from its conceptual roots in the spiritualist movement of the 19th century to its mass-market appeal. The discussion highlights how early talking boards evolved into the commercially successful Ouija board, initially marketed as a novelty item. However, the narrative quickly pivots to the darker aspects, detailing how the Ouija board has been implicated in numerous criminal cases, including murder. These instances, such as the case of Carol Sue Elvaker, May Murdock, and the Turley family, are presented to illustrate the potential for the board to influence individuals towards extreme actions, whether through psychological manipulation, delusion, or the invocation of external forces.
The exploration extends into the occult and metaphysical interpretations of the Ouija board. It is presented not merely as a game, but as a tool that can potentially access subconscious desires, spiritual entities, or even other dimensions. The hosts discuss theories surrounding the "idiomotor effect" (the subconscious movement of the planchette) versus genuine supernatural communication, referencing figures like Alistair Crowley, who viewed the board as a powerful magical instrument. The concept of "elementals" and "shells" of the deceased are discussed as potential entities that could be contacted, with a strong emphasis on the inherent dangers and the need for caution and research.
Finally, the episode touches upon the enduring mystery and fascination surrounding the Ouija board. Despite its controversial history and the varying beliefs about its true nature, its cultural impact remains significant. The hosts conclude by reiterating the power of belief and the subconscious, suggesting that the Ouija board's danger lies not just in what it might summon, but in how it can amplify and manifest the users' own internal states. The discussion also covers the commercial evolution of the brand through various companies and its continued presence in popular culture.