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Western science teaches that our beings are governed by the laws of physics and our minds play no part. There are, however, flaws in this thinking, most prominently unexplained paranormal phenomena that defy explanation by modern theories of physics. Collected by parapsychologists, these data include extrasensory perception (ESP), poltergeist occurrences, and psychokinesis. Much of the current data in parapsychology and their implications for understanding the true nature of the self are examined here. Beginning with a consideration of several instances of spontaneous psi, the book examines the theoretical explanations of paranormal phenomena. It covers the hypothesis and evidence that minds contain the so-called hidden variables that determine the outcomes of the quantum process, thus interweaving parapsychology with modern physics. The reader is also forced to consider in detail the relationship between the conscious mind and the physical brain and the evidence that minds survive the death of bodies.
What makes us who we are? From a scientific viewpoint, any individual's existence is improbable at best. Consciousness as an actuality is inarguable; its nature, however, remains elusive. This work argues the view of self as a field of pure consciousness, debating the existence of a continuing self and drawing conclusions about this entity and its relation to the physical body and the physical world. Beginning with an exploration of the relationship between mind and matter, it discusses ostensible psi phenomena such as extra-sensory perception and psychokinesis and their implications for our understanding of the mind and the cosmos. Additional topics include the perennial mind-body problem; the role of consciousness in quantum mechanics (and conversely the role of quantum mechanics in the study of consciousness); the anthropic principle; and evidence for Intelligent Design. Quasi-religious questions such as the survival of consciousness after death are also addressed.
Western science teaches that our beings are governed by the laws of physics and our minds play no part. There are, however, flaws in this thinking, most prominently unexplained paranormal phenomena that defy explanation by modern theories of physics. Collected by a handful of renegade scientists who call themselves parapsychologists, these data include extrasensory perception (ESP), poltergeist occurrences, and psychokinesis. Much of the current data in parapsychology and their implications for understanding the true nature of the self are examined here. Beginning with a consideration of several instances of spontaneous psi, the book examines the theoretical explanations of paranormal phenomena. It also covers the hypothesis and evidence that minds contain the so-called hidden variables that determine the outcomes of the quantum process, thus interweaving parapsychology with modern physics. The minds fate upon the death of the physical body is discussed; the reader is forced to consider in detail the relationship between the conscious mind and the physical brain and the evidence that minds survive the death of bodies.
Koneru Ramakrishna Rao has played a leading role in advancing parapsychology in the United States, India, and around the world--serving as president of both the Indian Academy of Applied Psychology and the U.S.-based Parapsychological Association. He founded the Journal of Indian Psychology and served as editor of the Journal of Parapsychology for nearly two decades. He has authored many books, including Basic Research in Parapsychology (second edition, 2001, $39.95) and Consciousness Studies (2002, $75). Thirteen essays collected here honor his contributions to the field; they are written by Raos colleagues, students, and protgs on such topics as psychical research, prayer and healing, consciousness, dreams and clairvoyance. Also provided is a complete bibliography of Raos published writings.
Many people have experienced such unusual phenomena as dreams that later seem to correspond with unforeseeable events, thinking of a long-lost friend just before he or she unexpectedly calls, or the ability to "feel" the presence of deceased loved ones. What many do not realize is that these types of experiences have been researched for more than a century by eminent scientists, including Nobel laureates. Most of these researchers have concluded that some of these phenomena do occur, although we are far from explaining them to everyone's satisfaction. This book is the first in almost 40 years to provide a comprehensive scientific overview of research in the field of parapsychology, explaining what we know and don't know about so-called psi phenomena, such as "telepathy," "precognition" or "psychokinesis." Contributors evaluate the evidence for these phenomena, accounting for factors such as selective memory, wish fulfillment and incorrect methods or analyses, in some cases offering psychological, physical and biological theories. Instructors considering this book for use in a course may request an examination copy here.
This is a work of "systematic parapsychology." The book aims to construct a framework and system of parapsychology, taking a comprehensive approach to the field. The Outline of Parapsychology states that parapsychology has a different philosophical background from the existing science and religions, and posits that pantheism could be the theoretical basis of parapsychology. The book also integrates parapsychology with oriental philosophies and New Age movement thought.
"Dutch journalist Piet Hein Hoebens (1948-1984) held a unique position in the controversies between proponents and skeptics of parapsychology and related fields. While he described himself as a card-carrying skeptic with strong 'ecumenical' leanings, even many of his nominal opponents appreciated his work and his penetrating, open-minded criticism. Hoebens' constructive influence on the culture of responsible scientific exchange is felt to this day. The editors have collected (and mostly translated) more than 40 of Hoebens' most significant writings, about half of which were never published in English before. The editors also added editorial introductions to all chapters to elucidate their original contexts and their lasting relevance. Therefore, the book is more than a commemoration of an important author - it provides valuable insights into the history of parapsychology and its skeptical reflections"--Back cover.
“Superbly organized and researched, this book by Block provides a comprehensive presentation about parapsychology." -Library Journal, Starred Review The Encyclopedia of Parapsychology covers the history of parapsychology, key international figures, and a decade-by-decade annotated bibliography of research. It includes find information on early psychical researchers from around the globe and how the work of those psychical researchers inspired the creation of the modern field of parapsychology. Alongside biographical entries about key figures are sketches of those at the center of psychical inquiry, like mediums and others who seemingly have the ability to manifest strange phenomena. The En...
Noakes' revelatory analysis of Victorian scientists' fascination with psychic phenomena connects science, the occult and religion in intriguing new ways.