Psychology and the Paranormal: Exploring Anomalous Experience

In the last 20 years, the field of research on the paranormal has changed enormously, with David Marks evaluating the best available evidence to date on scientific claims. This book provides a neutral gaze to equip readers to make up their own minds and defend their conclusions, without taking a fixed sceptical or 'disbelieving view of the phenomena.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 424 pages
\n Publication date: 07 August 2020
\n Publisher: SAGE Publications Ltd
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The field of research on the paranormal has undergone a remarkable transformation in the past two decades. David Marks, in his comprehensive work, "Paranormal Science: A Critical Examination of Scientific Claims," delves into a comprehensive examination of various phenomena such as ESP, psychokinesis, precognition, ganzfeld, dissociative states, out-of-the-body experiences, alien abductions, and near-death experiences. By meticulously analyzing the best available evidence, Marks provides a comprehensive appraisal of scientific claims related to the paranormal.

Each chapter in the book explores the psychological processes that are likely to contribute to these extraordinary experiences, as well as the prevalence of paranormal beliefs. Importantly, this book does not adopt a fixed skeptical or "disbelieving view of the phenomena. Instead, it offers a neutral gaze that empowers readers to form their own opinions and equips them with critical skills to defend their conclusions.

Marks' approach is rigorous and scientific, employing a critical analysis of the evidence presented. He challenges popular misconceptions and debunks pseudoscientific claims, providing a clear and objective understanding of the paranormal realm. The book is organized into chapters, each dedicated to a specific aspect of the paranormal. Each chapter begins with an introduction that provides context and highlights the key findings.

The subsequent sections delve into the scientific evidence, psychological explanations, and cultural and historical perspectives related to each phenomenon. Marks employs a multidisciplinary approach, drawing from fields such as psychology, neuroscience, physics, and anthropology to provide a comprehensive understanding of the paranormal. He also discusses the ethical implications of studying the paranormal and the potential impact it can have on society.

Throughout the book, Marks highlights the limitations and challenges of scientific research in the paranormal field. He acknowledges the need for rigorous methodology, controlled experiments, and peer review to establish the validity of claims. He also acknowledges the subjective nature of some experiences and the potential for bias and confirmation bias in the research process.

In addition to its scientific content, "Paranormal Science: A Critical Examination of Scientific Claims" offers valuable insights into the human mind and the nature of consciousness. Marks explores the psychological mechanisms that underlie paranormal experiences, such as perception, attention, memory, and imagination. He discusses the role of belief and expectation in shaping our perception of the world and the impact of cultural and societal factors on paranormal beliefs.

The book also raises important ethical considerations related to the study of the paranormal. Marks explores the potential impact of pseudoscientific beliefs on individuals and society, as well as the responsibility of researchers to ensure the safety and well-being of participants in their studies. He advocates for a balanced and responsible approach to the study of the paranormal, recognizing that it can have both positive and negative consequences.

In conclusion, "Paranormal Science: A Critical Examination of Scientific Claims" is a groundbreaking work that provides a comprehensive and objective exploration of the paranormal realm. By examining the best available evidence, psychological processes, and cultural and historical perspectives, David Marks offers readers a deeper understanding of the phenomena and equips them with the critical skills to evaluate scientific claims. This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the paranormal, psychology, or the scientific method.

\n Weight: 718g\n
Dimension: 169 x 239 x 34 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781526491053\n \n