What percentage of people can successfully perform at least one magic trick that amazes adults? I can only guess: Maybe 5 percent. What percentage of people have the hobby of magic tricks? Again, I can only guess: Maybe 0.2 percent. I would be very interested in other estimates on this question. Are there any survey results on this? The percentages could be regionally very different.

Now, is it right that perhaps 95 percent of people cannot successfully perform a single magic trick? Is it right that so few people enjoy the hobby of magic tricks? Or is this a failure of the art of magic, a failure of the magicians? A part of the magicians was or is against magic courses for beginners, because thereby secrets are "revealed". But isn't it more in the interest of magic if there are more new magicians? Isn't there really egoism behind the wish that there are no magic courses for beginners, that people want to have all the magic tricks for themselves?

What percentage of people should do magic? I believe that magic tricks are for everyone.

Strange numbers. When I was young every person could do a magic trick of some sort. Cub Scouts had a Magic book and Boy's Life magazine had regular articles teaching magic tricks.
In grades 2-4 there was was a magazine called "Weekly Reader" widely used in schools. It offered magic tricks regularly. In the late 90's I organized magic clubs at several high schools.

So, up until 20 years ago I would estimate the number above 50%. I would agree this is lower now, but not as low as you 'guess.'

As to your guesses at causes, few people today have 'hobbies' of any kind, preferring vicarious computer based escape.
Magic requires imagination and the ability for mental imagery - plus the "willingness to work."

I recent decades I have attempted to teach or mentor several young magician wannabies.
They all fell part from the unwillingness to practice or to even show up on time.

It isn't about "keeping secrets." It is about commitment and responsible behavior.

In my high school club classes, about 60% dropped out after a week when they learned they actually had to perform the just learned effect
before learning a new magic effect. I would still teach them today if you send real students.

but then you shift from "learning tricks" to "doing magic" - an entirely different level or learning.

What percentage? I would venture that all people should be able to do an impromptu performance of something -
sing a song, juggle, do a magic effect, play an instrument, recite a poem, etc.

Learning a couple of magic tricks is easier than most and a great way to overcome stage fright.

So, the next time you have guests over to your house, require that everyone hide their electronic gizmo and DO SOMETHING.

If they cannot - be prepared to teach them a magic trick. Language is not even a barrier.

I do not believe there is any magician unwilling to teach a magic trick to someone else.
Teaching them an effect that they want to "know" - that is a different matter.
Not ego. I won't teach a five year old how to use a power saw either.

My estimates might be wrong, but I am from Germany and I guess in the USA much more people can do a magic trick than in Germany. The secrets of magic tricks are more hodden in Germany by the magicians.

Most magicians are waiters.

True story...

I was 'Wowed!' by a magician before. He delivered my pizza in under 30 minutes.

Cheesy entertainers?

As long as it is entertaining, the quality of the cheese isn't important.

Do not hustle the lobsters. And 101 other good tips from the Server’s Bible:
https://possector.com/staff/waiter

"Should be able to?" Anyone who wants to.

Can do a trick properly? Not too many, considering the numbers.

Have any idea what magic is about? Very few, again considering the numbers.

thanks, George, I was afraid to post that view