EMP 835    W. Bengston    3 credits
Sociology of the Paranormal — Research Applications

Description

This course offers a critical analysis of the methodology of parapsychology and other approaches to the study of psychic phenomena. The importance of the current interest in paranormal phenomena will be sociologically interpreted.

Objectives

• To critically analyze the methods and perspectives of parapsychology
• To analyze the theoretical implications and practical consequences of paranormal research for scientific inquiry
• To sociologically interpret the importance and relevance, both for the individual and society as a whole, of the current interest in paranormal phenomena

Topics

• Approaches to Paranormal Beliefs
• The Field of Parapsychology
• Anomalous Healing
• Human Energy Systems
• Altered States of Consciousness
• The Sociology of Psi
• Practical Applications of Psi
• The Implications for Science
• The Social Implications of Paranormal Research

Texts

• Daniel J. Benor, Healing Research: Spiritual Healing: Scientific Validation of a Healing Revolution
• Edge, Hoyt, Morris, Palmer, Rush, Foundations of Parapsychology
• Paul Kurtz, The Skeptics Handbook of Parapsychology
• Edgar Mitchell, Psychic Exploration: A Challenge for Science
• Michael Murphy, The Future of the Body: Explorations into the Further Evolution of Human Nature
• Benjamin Wolman, Handbook of Parapsychology
• Erich Goode, Paranormal Beliefs: A Sociological Introduction
• Dean Radin, The Conscious Universe

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