The GPM Paranormal SIG |
I define the paranormal simply as a class of phenomena that seem to transcend what we commonly call the "normal physical world." I have been interested in this for many years, both as a participant in experiments, a skeptic, and a debunker (the latter more often than not, I might add).
People in GPM have expressed an interest in this, and I have agreed to host an informal Paranormal SIG for a few months. I have written a paper that I believe looks objectively at the paranormal that is available to anyone. I do prefer to communicate by email, but I will accommodate anyone even if they don't have a computer. If you are interested, simply write me and I will send you my paper. I will be available at the RG to discuss this with anyone further.
After the RG, I will arrange a meeting at my home in March (so it can be announced in the February GPM Newsletter.) We can then decide if we want to perform an experiment, and settle the details. The intention of this is to get Mensans together for some fun. The Cardinal Rule is simple: discuss issues and not personalities. It is in this vein that I wish to enter into this experience, and I hope all will benefit from it.
I like it.
I do have one comment re your personalities note. As interesting as the alleged paranormal phenomena is, the level of evidence required by believers and disbelievers is to me even more interesting. I am particularly fascinated by those who are outstandingly competent in some technical field, but can abandon the scientific method when it comes to the so called paranormal. I think the personality factor must be important in our study. First is there an effect? Second but equally interesting, what personality characteristics cause intelligent people to believe in non-effects? Of course, on the other hand, I also consider the possibility that there may be those who reject convincingly demonstrated effects.
I hope we can agree that experiment should be the arbiter of our beliefs. Looking forward to your SIG.
Mike Johnson