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Psi experiments: do the best parapsychological experiments justify the claims for psi?
1Department of Psychology, University of Oregon, Eugene 97403.
Experientia
|April 15, 1988
Summary
Paranormal research claims often lack scientific rigor. A review of prominent studies reveals inadequate randomization, statistical errors, and insufficient documentation, questioning the validity of psychic phenomena evidence.
Area of Science:
- Parapsychology
- Psychical Research
Background:
- The Society of Psychical Research was founded in 1982.
- Parapsychologists claim evidence for paranormal phenomena like ESP and psychokinesis.
- The scientific establishment has historically rejected these claims without a fair hearing.
Observation:
- This paper critically appraises the best contemporary evidence for psi.
- Three major research programs were scrutinized: remote viewing, psi ganzfeld, and random number generator (RNG) studies.
- Methodological flaws were identified across these prominent research areas.
Findings:
- Inadequate randomization procedures were frequently observed.
- Prevalent use of multiple statistical testing without significance level adjustments.
- Insufficient prevention of sensory leakage and common errors in statistical testing.
- Inadequate documentation was a typical issue in reviewed studies.
Implications:
- Observed methodological departures raise concerns about the reliability of reported findings.
- Parapsychological research must meet higher methodological standards for scientific acceptance.
- Consistent, significant results from methodologically sound experiments are necessary to validate claims of paranormal phenomena.