IntroductionThere is no doubt that humans do not have total control over the outcome of an event. In a condition of uncontrollability, we typically perceive that the outcome of the event is due to an external locus of control (e.g., a system and superstition). In fact, a study by Matute (1994, 1995) provides evidence that participants are prone to react in accordance with their superstition practice and create an illusion of control when faced with uncontrollable events. This proves that those with superstitious beliefs see themselves as having control over uncontrollable outcomes. According to Vyse (2000), superstitious beliefs are a belief in supernormal causation – the outcome of one event is due to another event without a scientific explanation linking the two events (e.g. broken mirrors and black cats bring bad luck) . Studies have shown that in times of uncertainty, uncontrollability or vagueness, superstitious beliefs would be elevated. For example, Padgett and Jorgenson (1982) claim that during the Great Depression in the United States, interest in learning astrology increased. Similarly, Keinan (1994) observed that citizens who live in areas more likely to be bombarded by missiles have a higher level of paranormal thoughts than those who live in more peaceful regions. Malinowski (1954) reports that superstitious beliefs were evident when Trobriand islanders went fishing in an area with a low success rate: the high seas. However, this tendency was absent when fishing in an area with a higher success rate - the lagoon. Irwin (1992) suggested in his study that by turning to superstitious beliefs, these beliefs could help provide a perception of control over uncontrollable events. This shows that by having a...... middle of paper ...... 67(1), 48-55.Malinowski, B. (1954). Magic, science and religion. Garden City, NY: Doubleday. Matute, H. (1994). Learned helplessness and superstitious behavior are the opposing effects of uncontrollable reinforcement in humans. Learning and Motivation, 25(2), 216-232. Matute, H. (1995). Human reactions to uncontrollable outcomes: Further evidence for superstitions rather than helplessness. The Quarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology, 48B(2), 142-157. Padgett, V. R. & Jorgenson, D. O. (1982). Superstition and economic threat: Germany, 1918-1940. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 8(4), 736-741.Rudski, J. (2004). The illusion of control, superstitious belief and optimism. Current Psychology, 22(4), 306-315 Vyse, SA (2000). Believing in magic: the psychology of superstition (pp. 19-22). Oxford, England: Oxford University Press.