The Problems of Psychical Research / Experiments and Theories in the Realm of the Supernormal

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

23660

Title

The Problems of Psychical Research / Experiments and Theories in the Realm of the Supernormal

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Dr. Hereward Carrington explores the mental and psychological phenomena of psychical research, arguing that while the reality of supernatural communication remains unproven, the study of such events offers a legitimate scientific path to understanding the nature of consciousness, will, and the potential persistence of individuality beyond physical death.

Summary up to 500 words

In *The Problems of Psychical Research*, Dr. Hereward Carrington constructs a theoretical framework asserting that psychical research constitutes a legitimate science only if supernormal phenomena are proven real. Carrington argues that current psychological and materialist explanations are inadequate, proposing instead that consciousness may reside in specific brain centers, such as the basal ganglia, rather than being a diffuse attribute of the entire cortex. He suggests that the mind acts upon matter through an intermediary 'etheric medium,' utilizing a principle similar to electrical relays, where a weak mental impulse sets into motion stronger physical energies. A central theme of the work is the nature of mediumship, specifically the concept of 'fluidic hands.' Drawing on experiments by Dr. Ochorowicz, Carrington describes how these manifestations result from the externalization of a medium's vital force or a detached 'double.' These fluidic hands possess unique properties: they are often self-luminous, emit their own light, and can alter their size and shape at will. Carrington details experiments where a hand impression appeared on a photographic plate inside a sealed bottle, suggesting the ability to navigate three-dimensional space or even the fourth dimension. Furthermore, he notes that while these hands can be photographed, they often lack the actinic power to penetrate solid objects like X-rays, though their light is more potent than ordinary visible light. The text also addresses the necessity of darkness for séances. Carrington challenges the assumption that darkness is merely a precaution against fraud, positing instead that light is a destructive physical force that disrupts delicate energies. He draws parallels to biological origins, noting that life originates in darkness, as seen in embryonic development and the deep ocean, suggesting that subtle psychic energies function best in the absence of light's disruptive pressure. Ultimately, Carrington advocates for a patient, long-term scientific approach to unraveling mysteries such as telepathy and survival, emphasizing that the human will is a physical energy capable of manipulating matter, provided the correct scientific instruments and understanding of the etheric medium are applied.

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Categories

• Psychology
• Parapsychology