Parapsychologie

Parapsychology is a field of study that investigates paranormal phenomena and experiences that appear to contradict established scientific principles. The term was coined in the 1880s and refers to the study of phenomena such as telepathy, clairvoyance, precognition, psychokinesis, and near-death experiences.

The discipline emerged from early spiritualist movements and séances in the 19th century, with the Society for Psychical Research being founded in London in 1882. Early researchers included notable figures like Frederic Myers, William James, and Joseph Banks Rhine, who later established the Parapsychology Laboratory at Duke University.

Parapsychological research typically employs experimental methods borrowed from psychology and physics to investigate claims of psi phenomena. Common study areas include extrasensory perception (ESP), mind-matter interaction, and survival research examining evidence for consciousness surviving bodily death. Researchers use controlled laboratory settings, statistical analysis, and meta-analysis to evaluate results.

The scientific community generally regards parapsychology with skepticism due to the lack of reproducible results and methodological concerns. Major scientific organizations have not accepted parapsychological phenomena as scientifically valid, citing insufficient evidence that meets standard scientific criteria. Critics argue that positive results often stem from experimental flaws, statistical errors, or fraud rather than genuine paranormal abilities.

Supporters maintain that some studies show statistically significant results that cannot be explained by chance alone, suggesting genuine anomalous phenomena exist. They argue that the field employs rigorous scientific methodology and deserves legitimate scientific investigation.

Today, parapsychology research continues at various institutions worldwide, though it remains on the fringes of mainstream academia. The field faces ongoing challenges in gaining scientific acceptance and securing funding for research programs. Despite decades of investigation, no parapsychological phenomenon has achieved widespread scientific consensus regarding its existence or mechanisms.