parapsicología

Parapsychology is a field of study that investigates alleged psychic phenomena and other paranormal claims, often referred to as "psi" phenomena. These include extrasensory perception (ESP), which encompasses telepathy, clairvoyance, and precognition, and psychokinesis (PK), the purported ability to influence physical objects or events with the mind. Parapsychology also explores phenomena such as reincarnation, near-death experiences, apparitions, and mediumship.

The discipline emerged in the late 19th century with the rise of spiritualism and sought to apply scientific methods to the study of these claims. Early researchers focused on controlled experiments, often involving card-guessing tasks for ESP and attempts to influence dice rolls for PK. While some studies have reported statistically significant results, they have often faced criticism regarding methodology, reproducibility, and the potential for fraud or misinterpretation.

Parapsychology occupies a controversial position within mainstream science. Critics argue that the phenomena it investigates are not scientifically validated and that the evidence presented is insufficient or flawed. They often point to the lack of a consistent theoretical framework and the failure to produce repeatable, irrefutable demonstrations of psi abilities under rigorously controlled conditions. Proponents, on the other hand, maintain that the field is exploring genuine anomalies that warrant further investigation and that a more open-minded approach is needed.

Despite the ongoing debate, parapsychological research continues in various institutions around the world. The field grapples with the challenge of establishing robust scientific credibility while exploring phenomena that challenge conventional understanding of consciousness and reality.