The million-dollar secret: Millennia-old belief or just psychological influence?

The evil eye bead is a powerful symbol found in almost every culture, with its blue, eye-shaped symbol believed to protect against bad energy for centuries. This talisman, which is frequently seen on babies' wrists, on doors of houses, in vehicles and in workplaces, stands out with its cultural, commercial and psychological dimensions, far beyond being just a symbol of good luck. So, does the evil eye bead really protect, or is it just a belief and placebo effect?

The history of the evil eye bead dates back to the ancient Egyptian, Mesopotamian and Greek civilizations. In these ancient civilizations, the eye figure was considered a powerful talisman that warded off evil spirits and bad energy. Over time, it was adopted by many cultures from the Middle East to Anatolia, from the Mediterranean to Central Asia. Although it is currently seen as a cultural heritage in Türkiye, the evil eye bead is also considered a symbol with esoteric and occult roots.

TURNED INTO A GREAT ECONOMIC POWER

The evil eye bead has become a multi-million dollar industry beyond the realm of belief. It is widely produced and sold, especially in Türkiye's tourist centers of Izmir-Nazarköy, Cappadocia, Antalya and Istanbul. It attracts great interest from both local and foreign tourists as a souvenir. Many businesses, from small workshops to large stores, make significant contributions to the economy from this symbol.

PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT, NOT SCIENTIFIC PROTECTION

Scientists emphasize that there is no evidence that the evil eye bead provides direct protection. However, it is stated that it is an important psychological relaxation tool. When people wear this bead or hang it in their homes, they can feel safe, which can contribute to reducing stress and increasing general well-being. These effects are likened to psychological healing processes called placebo.

EVIL EYE BEAD: THE INTERSECTION POINT OF BELIEF, CULTURE AND PSYCHOLOGY

Not only a lucky charm, but also a multi-layered symbol containing deep cultural meanings, commercial value and psychological support, the evil eye bead may seem more like a decorative object today, but the meanings it carries reflect traces of the past and the needs of people in the world of faith.

SOURCE: SÖZCÜ

Source: News Center