parapsychology

n. the systematic study of alleged psychological phenomena involving the transfer of information or energy that cannot be explained in terms of presently known scientific data or laws. Such study has focused largely on the various forms of extrasensory perception, such as telepathy and clairvoyance, but also encompasses such phenomena as poltergeist activity and the claims of mediums. Although parapsychologists are committed to scientific methods and procedures, the field is still regarded with suspicion by most scientists, including most psychologists. This can perhaps be attributed to three main reasons: (a) Admitting even one instance of paranormal causation would potentially lead to the reexamination and reframing of numerous established laws and principles of science; (b) even the best-documented positive findings in this area have proved impossible to replicate; and (c) some researchers have been duped by charlatans. —parapsychological adj. —parapsychologist n.

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Psychology term of the day

April 19th 2024

Smell Identification Test (SIT)

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