Reason, Authority and Theology in Francisco de Vitoria’s Concept of Magic

The analysis of knowledge derived from the relection of De magia distinguishes between science, magic, and religion. The first is the result of an investigation based on natural causes. The mystery and solitude that surround the scientist in pursuit of their objectives not only constitute a context of discovery in which not everyone is capable of operating but also allow Vitoria to intuit that people of very different backgrounds are present within it. However, what is important here is not so much the intention that guides them, but rather that the resources employed depend on nature and are available to anyone and, therefore, do not imply any reprehensible action.