The „Informat.ro – INSCOP Research Barometer: Romania Between Magic and Esotericism” was conducted by INSCOP Research at the request of the news platform Informat.ro, in partnership with the Strategic Thinking Group think-tank. This study aims to explore the prevalence and beliefs surrounding superstitions, particularly in Romania, reflecting societal attitudes towards magic and mysticism.
A graphical representation of the survey data can be found on the official website, as well as a complete video presentation detailing the findings.
One significant discovery from the research pertains to the superstition surrounding black cats. According to the data, approximately 15.8% of Romanians believe that if a black cat crosses their path, it will bring them bad luck. In contrast, a substantial 82.7% of individuals do not hold this belief, while 1.5% of respondents either do not know or did not provide an answer.
Statistical analysis reveals demographic trends within these beliefs. Notably, supporters of the AUR political party, individuals under the age of 30, and those with only primary education are more inclined to believe in the unlucky nature of black cats. Conversely, disbelief in this superstition is primarily observed among USR and PNL supporters, as well as those with higher education levels, residents of major urban areas, and state employees.
The methodology employed in this research involved data collection between October 6 and 10, 2025. The methodology utilized was a questionnaire-based interview, specifically carried out through the CATI (Computer-Assisted Telephone Interviewing) approach. The sample size was 1,100 individuals, representative of significant socio-demographic categories—such as sex, age, and occupation—within the non-institutionalized population of Romania aged 18 and older. The maximum margin of error for the data is estimated at ± 2.95% with a 95% confidence level.
This research provides valuable insights into how traditional beliefs intersect with contemporary views in Romania. The findings may suggest a lingering adherence to cultural superstitions, particularly among younger audiences and those with lower educational attainment. This phenomenon could reflect wider societal attitudes that privilege folklore and magical thinking in certain demographics while demonstrating skepticism in more educated and urban populations.
The implications of such findings reach into various aspects of Romanian society, including politics, education, and cultural identity. Understanding these mindsets can aid efforts in education and public policy by addressing the gaps in belief systems and societal development.
In summary, the „Informat.ro – INSCOP Research Barometer” sheds light on the complex fabric of Romanian beliefs concerning magic and superstition, with a specific focus on the attitude toward the notorious black cat. It highlights how demographic factors influence belief systems and encourages further exploration into the cultural narratives that persist in shaping Romanian society today. For those interested in a deeper dive, the graphical data presentations and video highlights are readily available on the website.
