What’s the difference between ghosts and demons? Books, folklore and history reflect society’s supernatural beliefs

Artists often turn to the supernatural to reflect on and speak to the anxieties brought about by social, religious and political upheaval.

By: Penelope Geng, Macalester College, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: October 27, 2025

Words: 1,384

Last Updated: 1 week, 5 days ago

By Penelope Geng, Macalester College

Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to curiouskidsus@theconversation.com.

What’s the difference between ghosts and demons? – Landon W., age 15, The Colony, Texas

Belief in the spirit world is a key part of many faiths and religions. A 2023 survey of 26 countries revealed that about half the …

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