In EMK, “Magick is the art of altering consciousness.” While the statement seems succinct enough; it requires additional explanation and agreeance on the terms within the definition itself.
     The most elusive word is consciousness. Not surprisingly, since modern science and philosophy has yet to come to a consensus on what consciousness is, how it is created, what possesses it, and if it even objectively exists. We make no claim to ultimate truth, but consciousness in the context of EMK has certain characteristics.
      In EMK, everything a magus can perceive contains consciousness. Including the magi themselves. However, all things contain differing levels of consciousness. Levels of consciousness varies among different instances of the same object, from animal to animal in the same species, and from person to person. Consciousness also exists in non-corporeal entities and ideas.
     Not surprisingly, this brings Emergent Magick in line with the first human belief system—animism. In animism all things–rocks, rivers, animals, etc.–contain their own spirit. In most respects, spirit is synonymous with consciousness.