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10 February
THE WORLD OF THE SUPRA-SENSORY
ORD
1812-66
INTRODUCTION
F
This paper will discuss the amorphous subject of ESP and related topics,
not exhaustively, but with the purpose of informing interested persons, where,
by whom and how the extra-sensory world is studied.
It is not the purpose of the author to show any bias, or to take part
in a controversy about the existence of ESP. The area is under investigation,
and the author only wishes to describe circumstances and persons concerned
with these matters. The reader has his own opinion about the reasonableness
of the phenomenon and probably would not be awayed by an article written by
an anonymous source. It is fair to the audience to know however that the
author is a behavior scientist, fully accredited as a Fellow in a Social
Science association.
He is also an associate member in good standing of
a legitimate Est organization. My sympathies lie in neither extreme side
of the validity or non-validity of ESP. It is befitting to state my bias
in the biblical quote, "Seek and ye shall find and the truth shall make
you free."
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WHAT IS ESP?
The topic of ESP is extraordinarily broad and all encompassing and
the initials have been used to describe a multitude of phenomena. Speci-
fically, Esp stands for extra-sensory perception, that is, the reception of
information by means other than the customary sensory processes, vision,
audition, gustation, olfaction and kinesthesis. Those investigators con-
cerned with phenomena that do not appear well explained or accounted for
by the usual means of perception have postulated acquisition of knowledge
by the extra-sensory pathway which has not been fully understood or des-
cribed. Such individuals accept the existence of such an avenue on theo-
retical assumption or faith, often proclaiming that only future technology
and research will provide the appropriate proofs. Be this as it may, the
reader should be aware that science does not claim to understand completely
the known systems by which we receive and process sensory data. Hypothe-
sizing an unknown or undiscovered system may be begging the question rather
than offering a meaningful solution.
All disciplines of science have more than enough researchable problems
for examination. Some scientists feel that to wander into such poorly
charted seas of the mystical events, notoriously unstable and ephemeral,
are rather poor subjects for study in the laboratory where a phenomenon
should be reproducible for testing. Repeatability of an event is a basic
requirement for a research investigation. Thus, even some clinically
observable phenomena are often not considered appropriate subject matter
for the laboratory examination.
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As a result of this handicap, the investigation of ESP events is left
to those who do not require the same research conditions as the usual labor-
atory scientist. They are willing to tolerate less stable data. They are
forced to publish or report their findings in journals and at meetings
exclusively atuned to the esoteric. They accept different professional
credentials than other professional groups because there is no defined spe-
cific training in this area. They have become a clique or guild or, in some
cases, a cult, who have a responsibility to demonstrate to colleagues and
the public that( these events occur and are a legitimate subject for scien-
tific study.
The history of science is replete with examples of subject matter that
were considered too unique for serious study, of events which were thought
to be beyond scientific examination, findings which were beyond acceptance
of the then prominent and influential scientists. For instance, hypnosis
was not too long ago considered a somewhat suspicious occurrence, and yet
even though still poorly understood, is an acceptable phenomenon of inves-
tigation today, Reading through the fingertips or "dermal optical percep-
tion," a few short years ago, would have been thought a ludicrous area.
Since the Russians have published their studies in the dermal optical effect,
two or three American investigators in universities are examining the phen-
chianon. If results aren't encouraging it will sink back to its previous
state of Limbo but momentarily it is an "acceptable event." More is men-
tioned on this topic later. This particular example illustrates a circum-
stance which is of interest in the changing status of fields for justifiable
study. The EP researchers have been aware of and interested in "finger
reading" for some time, but have had little success in convincing their
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more conservative colleagues that such a phenomenon could reasonably exist.
However, after the Russians became interested and a new name was applied,
the same phenomenon gained respectability. It can be anticipated that other
such events will also gain equal acceptance.
Lest the reader conclude that the author is favoring the ESP position
unfairly, let it be said that science progresses cautiously and is not
hurried into studying matters without due consideration of the likelihood
of reasonable solutions. Practical or political conditions also tend to
influence the direction of science and the funding mechanisms of governments
or foundations can and do often determine the importance and attractiveness
of an area for study. If the Russians are interested, then the West must
at least keep its scientific eye alert. Needless to say, the Chinese vill
do the same. As far as ESP is concerned, there has been some concern
displayed by both camps, but it has been a cautious and suspicious entry
into this field carefully disguised in terms less esoteric -- such as dermal
optical phenomena and sensory processes.
It should be remembered that when such penetrations are made tato
sotence, Bar studies are not generally supported through the paranormal
investigators but rather through the more conservative scientist as an
adjunct to his normal research interest,
Thus, it can be seen that MP, although often neglected by the seien-
tific community, does get its attention when stimulation of money, political
ar practical events occur.
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800 SPECIFICS OF THE PHENOMENON
When He is mentioned, one usually thinks of such terms as telepathy
(reading another's thoughts, or communication between two minds without
intervening spoken or written words), clairvoyance (recognition or percep-
tion of an event or circumstance of which no one else is aware), precog-
nition (knowledge of an event or circumstance prior to its cecurrence),
peychokinesis (manipulation of physical entities by thought energy). These
are familiar areas of the paranormal that receive considerable attention.
At the same time, such topics as survival of personality after death, polter-
geist, visions, faith dealing, medium behavior and a host of occult phen-
cena seen also to be proper subjects of study. It is an undefined area
but basically concerns events that appear to depend on energy, not generally
perceived or received by ordinary sensory systems. The events are diffi-
eult to reproduce under appropriate conditions for study. They are also
experiences that are private, subjective and often emotion-laden. They
are not common to everyone, which limits their understanding and opportun-
ity for study. Possibly our cultural attitudes toward the occult may be
a factor in reducing the number of cases made public, but even if there
vere indications of more data, the nature of the pehnomena is still terribly
elusive.
METHODOLOGY
Eep researchers have attempted for years to utilize the techniques
and experimental methods of the physical scientists in order to treat their
data effectively end to follow the lead of their more rigorous colleagues.
Their efforts represent, at times, a somewhat inadequate bow in the direction
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of appropriate controls and a somewhat superficial understanding of real
experimental methodology. Because of the nature of their studies, small
numbers of subjects are generally available and, therefore, their results
are completely dependent on the application of statistics. The data may be
shown to be statistically significant, but often the non-parametric techniques
are applied after the data is collected and it is not part of the basic
experimental plan. In addition, it can often be seen that pertinent vari-
ables are not controlled, and thus the data, though significant from a
statistical viewpoint, may be inadequate. In addition, some of the psycho-
logical tests or questionnaires that are used have not been carefully
prepared or adequately validated on other populations. This tends, therefore,
to give less credence to their findings.
Many of the instances of Est phenomena are of such a nature that they
must be studied under non-laboratory or natural conditions. Such instances
make it extremely difficult to control those variables which may be deter-
mining factors in such studies. In actuality, a clinical or judgmental
approach would be a much more satisfactory technique of investigation than
to attempt any elaborate experimental procedures. In order to overcome these
difficulties, the EsP investigator often employs very sophisticated electronic
equipment for measures. Unfortunately, often these investigators are not
sophisticated in the operation of such equipment, nor in the interpretation
of its data. Therefore, such instrumentation does not add to the reliability
of the information. It is rather obvious that the psychic experience is an
emotional laden situation which also prevents a systematic, objective labor-
atory approach to the problem. Again, the clinical methodology is probably
more effective. The experimental techniques which might be applied would be
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most appropriate in an examination of conditions under which such phenomena
might be induced. Experimental procedures have been developed in the area
of hypnosis, drug studies, etc., which might contribute to studies of psychic
phenomena. In general, the author feels that the Bop researcher tries too
hard to apply experimental methodology which may be inappropriate to the
phenomena under investigation. He would do better to isolate clinically
the variables which could perhaps be atudied in part under laboratory con-
ditions.
A good, thorough, objective clinical assessment would be as success-
ful in selling this type of research as inappropriately applied experimental
methods based on statistical significance which may or may not be psychologi-
cally pertinent.
Further examination of the physical deprivation techniques, the simi-
lation of battlefied stress, procedures used by military psychologists, may
be appropriate for the study of some of these conditions.
RESEARCHER ATTITUDES
Something mist be mentioned about the experimenter attitule in studies
af these phenomena. The ESP investigator, in general, takes a sympathetic
view of his subject. He is proving a case for ESP. In general, the psychol-
ogist involved in studies of ESP is as emotionally involved, but on the
miosite end of the scale. He feels threatened and negative toward such
hexplained phenomena, therefore, tends to depreciate results and consciously
: unconsciously control subjects under study.
It is somewhat reinforcing to find nev scientists who are willing to
look at the Esp area without preconceived notions of its existence or non-
existence, but rather are motivated from the point of view that this is an
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interesting area of study which should be given the attention. Recently,
a few investigators have come to the fore and seem to be vell qualified and
seen to understand when to apply rigorous control and how to adjust variables
in the appropriate fashion. It is the author's belief that these investi-
gators have a major contribution to make to the field. It is reinforcing
to find them continuing their professional relationships with their more
conservative colleagues, and yet, at the same time, publishing in the journals
of parapsychology.
From a methodological point of view, the author would recommend that
BOP be studied from a naturalistic or phenomenological approach, that clinical
Judgment be utilized until aspects of psychic phenomena can be identified
for appropriate study under laboratory conditions. It is my belief that
some of the phenomena can be treated effectively, but only by the most
sophisticated investigators. Dr. Martin Orne has shown that the demands of
the Investigator under ordinary conditions can svay the results of an exper-
iment by conscious or unconscious manipulation of subjects. These findings
throw in doubt many of the behavioral studies that have already been done in
a variety of areas and certainly would cast doubt on some of the positive
findings of the parapsychologist. It is, therefore, necessary that future
research in psychic phenomena be conducted with the utmost care and by more
highly trained and sophisticated research personnel.
RESEARCH EFFORTS IN ESP
It is difficult to describe research programs of any field but parti-
cularly hard to give an overview of FoP. First, the diversity of the phen-
quena would make it a never-ending report and secondly, there seems to be
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many interested investigators who know one another informally but are not
members of institutions or professional associations. Of course, the major
BBP centers are obvious, however, there is considerable fractionization in
the field and the journals and meetings of the paranormal do not really
represent the general population of investigators or interested parties.
The author will attempt to discuss the organisations and Investigators
of which he is svare who seem to have more than a passing interest in these
topics.
THE DUKE COMPLEX
Probably the best known Esp research center in the world was that at
Duke University under the direction of Dr. J. B. Rhine. This laboratory
was founded over 30 years ago and served as a focal point of research and
publication for ESP studies. In 1964 Rhine founded the "Foundation for the
Study of the Nature of Man" located also in Durham, North Carolina. The
University laboratories were closed and Rhine is continuing hia studies
through the Foundation.
Associated with him has been the Psychical Research
Foundation, Inc., whose director, Mr. W. G. Roll, is primarily interested in
the study of post-mortem survival. Other staff members include Dr. Louise A.
Rhine (Mrs. Rhine) who has written several articles and books on Est, visiting
investigators on fellowships or staff appointments from the United States
and other countries. The Duke Laboratory has served as a training ground
for many of the parapsychologists throughout the world. This training
function has made Duke, in the past, ESP's Mecca and helped Dr. Rhine become
a very influential man in this field of endeavor. In fact, he has been
perhaps more prominent than maty have been in the best interest of Esp, since
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it is alleged by some that the "science of Esp" has not broadened or grown
as it might under the leadership of a less charismatic figure. All sciences
have their leaders, but usually that leadership is restricted to personal
research and writing. His influence has encompassed research methodology
and funding allocation more than might be customary. The Carolina complex
has many aspects of a center that has offered research stimulation and has
served as a clearning house of approved research.
The research done at Duke covers a variety of aabjects, but principally
concerned with laboratory investigations of EsP utilizing Zener (sor cards),
dice manipulation, testing of sensitives. In addition, the laboratory was
a methodological proving ground for ways in which phenomena might be studied.
It also served as the publication center, and thus a review point for
articles reporting ESP research around the world. Most of the articles are
of studies done with techniques and tests developed at Duke or by Duke-
affiliated people. The journals published are the Journal of Parapsychology
and the Parapsychological Bulletin. Many of the studies are described in
statistical terms reporting that a set of conditions resulted in demonstrating
a significance beyond chance of the Esp phenomena. Generally, the statis-
ties are correctly used, but the experimental conditions may be open to
question because some variables have not been appropriately controlled. It
is the author's impression that the treatment of statistical data, although
technically correct, is naive and may be statistically significant, but not
paychologically pertinent. Fev scientists other than members of the immed-
tate field read these articles regularly and, therefore, there is little
constructive criticism given to methodology or procedures. The author has
noted that members of the group do not always ask penetrating questions
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concerning procedures of their colleagues either because they feel they must
"trust" each other's experimental skills or they do not comprehend the real
cagiva of the scientific techniques. (Most scientists have little compune-
tion to inguire of another's procedures. No one expects protection through
courtesy and none asmmes infallibility in experimental design. )
Interestingly enough, a paranormal investigator occasionally publicly
impugna another's motives rather than his experimental procedures. Some
of the comments that are written in these journals about questionable resea
reh
can be less than polite.
In recent times, the influence of the Rhine complex has declined. There
are now more centers of study, such as the University of Virginia and the
University of California in Los Angeles. This is a natural evolution because
of greater acceptance of this field in general.
However, Ehine's laboratory vas and is influential in other parts of
the world because of its scholarship and fellowship funds. Dr. K. Romakrishair
Roa of India has been at Duke for three years and reports that his govern-
ment has asked him to set up a research center in ESP when he returns.
Dr. Milar Ryzl of Prague, Czechoslavakia, has been supported by funds from
Duke for three years, His research has been concentrated on one subject
who seems to be a very sensitive individual. His skill is reporting stimulus
cards in sealed envelopes. Several Western parapsychologists, invluding
Gaither Pratt and Ian Stevenson of the University of Virginia, and Stephen
Abrams of Oxford, have worked with Ryzl in Prague. Ryal also has kept
Dr. Rhine briefed (by letter) on Bi research in some of the Iron Curtain
countries.
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Mr. Soji Otani, Assistant Professor of Psychology, Japanese Defense
Academy, shant a year at Duke and will continue his studies in Japan.
Dr. Dreno Onetto recently set up a parapsychology laboratory in Chile. These
are examples of the foreign interest that has been spawned by Rhine.
The second most prominent group in the field is the American Society
of Paychtoal Research located in New York City. It is headed by Dr. Gardner
Murphy (also of Menninger Clinic). Dr. Karlos Osis is the research director.
the society's prime interest is to collect, evaluate and report evidence
of psychic phenomena. It is an outgrowth of the British Society started
over a hundred years ago for the same purpose. There have been many distin-
guished names among the members of these societies, all of vhon are or were
dedicated to understanding the esoteric. Any such group varies in its ability
to evaluate psychic events scientifically, but certainly the society collected
more anecdotal data than any other organization. The members are sincere
with a bias toward believing such events occur. Novever, they do try to
maintain objectivity. The American Society is in competent research hands.
Their present efforts are concentrated on studying the relationship between
BEP and creativity sponsored by the Ittleson Family Foundation. In addition
to this program, Dr. Onis has been interested in patient behavior prior to
death as reported by trained observers and medical personnel. This research
is an attempt to explore impressions, verbal reports, and sensory informa-
tion just before death.
Like many groups concerned with the occult, the society's staff becomes
Lavolved in all related phenomena from investigating the honesty of mediums
t
enhancement o
SP under drugs. Much of their interests are revealed
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in their lecture series and their publication, Journal of Psychical Research
(a quarterly), Membership is open to all who express an interest in psychic
phenomena,
There are really quite a number of experienced BSP investigators and
at the same time few organizations sponsoring their studies. It is notable
that there tends to be some mobility from one group to another as a result.
For example, a few years ago, Dr. Osis
was research director of the Para-
psychological Foundation in New York. This group is headed by Mrs. Elaine
Garrett, a medium of some note. The foundation publishes the magazine
Tomorrow, which is a more popularly written version of an Es journal.
Three years ago, Dr. Osis and Mr. Douglas Dean left the Foundation,
Dr. Osis to the American Society and Mr. Dean to the Newark Engineering
School. The Foundation still functions, sponsoring research, but does in-
house. They recently sponsored work in hypnosis and Esp, which is a vogue
area at the nouent.
PARAPSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION
The there groups mentioned have had considerable influence in the major
MP organization, the Parapsychological Association. This is the professional
group which holds annual meetings, for paper presentation and policy planning
for many of the parapsychologists throughout the world. One can hold asso-
ciate status with no real specific academic requirements and member status,
if one engages in and reports Is research. To attend these meetings one
must be vouched for by a bonafide member of the asseciation. This is an
attempt to keep out troublesome individuals who are apt to be fascinated
by the title and the organization's program.
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The quality of the papers at these meetings is uneven, Generally,
they are of a less rigorous quality than at other professional groups, par-
ticularly in the description of experimental methodology. Some critiquing
occurs but usually the atmosphere is one of "togetherness" and mrtual
support. Some unpleasant situations have developed as the result of per-
somal differences within the group. There are few members in the associa-
tion who are eligible to hold office so there can be difficulty concerning
who is appropriate to serve next. In the last few years, Rh ne's establish-
ment of the Foundation has caused some splits in the group which are not
totally healed yet.
The association has sought recognition for Parapsychology in scienti-
fie circles, but with little success.
They attempted recently to become
affiliated with the American Association for the Advancement of Science,
but were refused, There are several countries represented in the PA and
last year the annual meeting was held in England to satisfy European members.
In general, however, the organization is American dominated and run. Although
not politically or professionally powerful, it serves as an identification
and reinforcement mechanism for the cut-group of parascientists.
One of the better known and highly respected members of the Parapsycho-
logical Association and formerly with Dr. Rhine for 25 years is Dr. Gaither
Pratt, presently at the University of Virginia, Medical School. His prin-
cipal interest at present is the identification of good DSP subjects at
the University of Virginia. He recently authored a book and is also lecturing
on ESP throughout the country.
Dr. Pratt has visited Rzyl twice in Prague and has made two trips to
Russianto discuss Lap with Professor Vasiliev and other interested scientists.
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He is probably better informed on this type of research being done around
the world than any other single individual.
There are other investigators who might be mentioned in connection with
the Rhine group and the Association, but it would make tedious reading.
Some of the better known individuals are: Dr. Gertrude Schmeidler, City
College, New York; Dr. Carroll B. Nash, St. Joseph's College, Philadelphia,
Pa .; Dr. John Freeman, Institute of Parapsychology, Durham, North Carolina;
Mrs. Sally Feather, Psychiatry Department, Duke University Hospital, Durham,
North Carolina; Dr. R. A. McConnell, Biophysics Department, University of
Pittsburgh; Dr. Montague Ullman, 4802 10th Avenue, Brooklyn, New York;
Mrs. Rhea White, Westburgh, Long Island; Dr. Lawrence Cusler, City College,
New York.
WIE ICH-PARAPSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION INVESTIGATORS
The previous section describes briefly one world of parapsychology.
There are many other interested individuals, but for one reason or another,
have not become closely associated with Dr. Rhine or the Parapsychological
Association.
Dr. Andrija Puharich, presently associated with the Intelectron Corp.,
has had a long-time interest in the occult. He was director of a momprofit
foundation in Maine for several years where he studied various sensitives
under "scientific" conditions. Among other things, he was responsible for
bringing Peter Murkos to this country, Mr. Hurkos has become a relatively
well-known sensitive who quite often receives attention in the press for his
exploits. More will be said of him later. Dr. Puharich has been interested
"> the effect of drugs on the mind and wrote "The Sacred Mushroom" about the
mushroom eater of South America. He also write "Beyond Telepathy" which is
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a collection of occult observations and Esp research. Dr. Puharich is a
very personable individual who has a broad scope of interests beyond the
occult area. He is quite a sophisticated person and is vell informed about
parapsychology. At present, Dr. Puharich is concerned with bio-medical
research and development at the Intelectron Corp., and he does make only
an occasional research foray in ESP.
One of the better known European centers of bie is at the University
of Utrecht under the Direction of Dr. W.H.C. Tenhoeff. He is chairman of
the Department of Parapsychology and has gained considerable publicity
through his prize sensitive, Mr. Croisett. Many popular articles have been
written of Croisett's ability to locate lost or missing people and to heal
the sick. A popular book has been written entitled, "Croisett the
Clairvoyant," which describes his life and gifts. Much of the Sunday
supplement claims of Mr. Croisett are generally thought to be exaggerated,
but he is still sought after and periodically the subject of some new
"scientific study." Dr. Tenhoeff does a fev studies occasionally in ESP, but
is principally known for his gifted protege. In 1964, Mr. Croisett vas
brought to the U.S. by the American Society of Psychical Research for study
at Rockland State Hospital.
Peter Hurkos should be treated somewhat separately, since he has become
a great celebrity on the sensitive scene. He is a Dutchman who was injured
in a fall many years ago. According to his own story, upon recovering
consciousness after three days, he found that he was receiving a considerable
amount of information, through his sensory systems, which he found confusing
and difficult to understand. He was put under medical care and after a
while, he began to be able to handle this information successfully. In a
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sense, he was receiving impressions, ideas, pictures that are not ordinarily
part of our everyday experience. This way he allegedly gained knowledge
unavailable to most of the other people. His demonstrations of this ability
have been relatively impressive. He can tell from an object owned by some-
one and give considerable information about the individual. It is difficult
to Imow whether it is as accurate as indicated, but in the demonstrations,
the subjects seem, at least, to agree with his statements.
The life of the sensitive is not an easy one, particularly when he has
bemn transplanted into a new culture. Mr. Hurkos has had to perform publicly
in order to earn sufficient money to live. He has been given publicity
which has, in a sense, perhaps made him feel more famous that he should. As
a result, he has Lived a much different life than he might have anticipated.
Because of the strong pressure of entertainment and in public demonstration
of skills, he has adopted behaviors that will help make him look more sen-
sational. Therefore, he is an extremely difficult subject to study with
any degree of objectivity. He needs to succeed and, therefore, will adjust
his performance for maximm siccess. He has developed many manners of
the showman and, unfortunately therefore, may give the impression of being
insincere. It is doubtful that he would be a good subject for a long-term
scientific investigation. However, he will always titillate the interest
of the audience and does do some unusual things. As noted previously, he
was brought to the U.S. by Dr. A. Puharich and was studied in Maine for
some montho.
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ASSOCTALES OF PARAPSYCHOLOGY
For a mumber of years, there have been people in the Washington area
who have been intrigued with the area of ESP and the occult. They are not
associated with the Duke laboratories or any specific ESP center. Their
interests are not to conduct research, but rather to watch demonstrations
and encourage granting organizations to give money for research in EsP.
In general, I would say they have little influence on procurement of funds,
but they are an interesting group. Dr. Rieseman, a psychiatrist, has been
one of the most active individuals here in Washington. He is extremely
skillful in sleight-of-hand and has spent a good deal of time attempting
to duplicate and imitate Esp phenomena, particularly in the card reading
area. He is a most knowledgeable individual about the occult scene and
samas to have contact with many of its leading personalities. He has held
sessions in his home in Virginia and seems to be somewhat of a center of
these activities. Dr. Riesenman seems to be convinced that these phenomena
exist and has been a hardy supporter of such individuals as Peter Hurkos.
He has been au advisor to the local police force, who on occasion have hired
people such as Peter Hurkos to look into missing persons or mirder cases.
Mr. William C. Moore, a Washington lawyer, is concerned with the
progress of ESP. Ho seems quite knowledgeable of the field in general and
demonstrations conducted in the area and keeps abreast of research being
conducted in the field. He is more of a commmicator than an investigator
and often arranges meetings for people with similar interests.
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England has always had a soft spot for its ghosts and mediums. The
Paychical Society was started there and interest in the occult still lives
amongat all levels of British society. It would be impossible to describe
all those personalities who dedicate some time and energy to this interest
but let a few names be representative. Oxford has, through grants, supported
the research of one Stephen Abrams, a proverbial Yank at Oxford. Mr. Abrams
did most of his studies at the Biometry Department from 1960 to 1963. He
was particularly concerned with Et and hypnosis and spent much of his time
with a few particularly good subjects. He also worked with Mr. Shackleton,
who is quite famous in England as a sensitive. Their experiment concerned
the transmission of drawings from the artist to Shackleton in another room.
Unfortunately, the data, although intriguing, could not be analyzed by any
valid or reliable method. They would be of clinical interest however.
Mr. Abrams' research, although of interest, never really progressed
beyond the pilot stage, because of other commitments and funding difficulties.
At present, he is seeking support for a telecommunications laboratory to be
located in England.
Mr. Abrams established rather good rapport with Professor Vasiliev and
his colleagues and visited Moscow and Leningrad to lecture.
There are several other noted Esp advocates in England who have written
several books and articles. Professor S. G. Soal of London is one of the
most noted investigators and has published an excellent book entitled
"Modern Experiments in Telepathy" which is a superior review of the research
done in Esp. Mrs. Rosalind Heywood of London is an avid fan of the occult,
although she has little professional training she is a very bright and
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relatively effective person. She is a believer but one who seems to be well
balanced. Har book "Beyond the Reach of Sense" is vell written.
Some of the prominent names in other fields who participate in ESP
studies are Sir Alistair Hardy, the well-known biologist at Oxford (he
served as the artist in Abrams-Shackleton experiment). Professor C. D. Board,
the famous philosopher at Cambridge, is on the Board of Directors of the
British Society of Psychical Research and has written many interesting
articles on the topic of ESP. Professor H. H. Price, philosopher at Oxford,
is an active participant in the field and recently gave a lecture on mesca-
Line and ESP here in the United States.
Bir Cyril Burt, psychologist and statistician of great note, has written
on the subject and been active in assisting in the research of others.
Professor W. Grey Walters, an internationally Imown cyberneticist and
brain physiologist of England, is an advisor to the Society of Psychical
Research,
The general atmosphere in England, particularly in dealing with some
of the above mentioned luminaries is one of extreme empathy for the ESP
ar occult investigator. However, there was also the feeling, at least,
perceived by the author that there is Little interest on their part to
look at the "nuts and bolts" of scientific validation of these phenomena.
Again, the need to "accept" the researcher's word was obvious as if "gentle-
man don't question each other's techniques" -. a totally inexcusable attitude
for the typical scientist who needs to know such information for complete
understanding of the experiment. These individuals, in general, accept the
occult and aren't terribly concerned with those who don't -- a much more
mature attitude in some ways than that demonstrated in the United States.
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Nonetheless, this approach will do little to advance the reputation of Esp
in scientific circles. At least, their more informal relaxed and confident
air is refreshing.
It was in England that much of the Russian ESP effort was reported by
Stephen Abrams in May 1962, who had recently returned from Vasiliev's
laboratory, It would be interesting to speculate who has encouraged whom
to become interested in Esp. There is some indication that the "Nautilus
Story" which was publicized by THIS WEEK, a Sunday supplement, on September 8,
1963, may have started mich of this activity. The transmission of ESP
signals from a submerged U.S. submarine to a land base was first reported
in a French newspaper in 1959. It is quite possible that this false report,
repeated in many publications and by word of mouth caused the Russians to
worry that the U.S. had a breakthrough in this area. Perhaps at the same
time, the amazing story stirred some of the U.S. scientists to rethink their
om opinions of BIP. Regardless, since that general time frame, there have
been indications of considerable activities in both sides of the curtain.
The Russian work is difficult to evaluate because of the many confusing
reports and articles by visitors who seem to see that which they are moti-
vated to see. Some of what has been said to be ongoing research is in
reality old research. Some of the visitors have even reported statements
made by extremely prominent Soviet scientists that we are sure were simple
cases of mistaken identity. Other people, however, have picked up this
misinformation and it is repeated without source reference and assumed to
be nev data. As a result, most recent claims in the Browning-Stone book, this
writer feels, is perhaps exaggerated.
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Professor Vasiliev is the best known in the field. He is Professor
of Physiology at the University of Leningrad. His work was reported to be
monitored by a committee headed by Professor E. A. Asratian, Director of the
Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology of the Academy of
Science, There is some doubt concerning the validity of Esp research and,
therefore, this committee serves as advisor. Vasiliev's staff consists of
physiologists, electronic specialists, physicists, cyberneticists and a
psychiatrist. Juri Tupitsin, the psychiatrist and Pavel Terentiev, a statis-
tician, are considered key men. The project administrator is Alga Lens, a
party functionary.
According to one source, the Russians appear to be vell acquainted
with American research in this area. They seem, however, oriented toward
the approach of the early French school. It is to be remembered that
Vasiliev is a student of Bekhterev, who in turn was a protege of Charcot's.
Their theoretical position, as reported by this same source, hypothe-
sizes ESP energy as a radiated form emanating from the brain and called
biological radio communication. In order to test this position, the Russians
have encased their experimenters in shielded rooms during experiments. Such
shielding seems to have no effect, in other words, allegedly ESP or thought
transfer occurs through shielding.
Further studies concerning radiated energy are being conducted with
electroscopes by a physicist named B. B. Kozunski who utilizes the Faraday
Cage. Also interested in this approach is Dr. Mirza of the Institute of
Neurophysiology. "Experiments in Mental Suggestions" by L. L. Vasiliev,
published in England, 1963, is one of the more interesting.
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FINGER READING
Professor Gregory Ratran, Chairman of the Psychology Department, Queens
College, New York, has been much interested in this dermal optical phenomenon
and visited Russia when the subject was under study. His report at a
District of Columbia Psychological Association Meeting in 1965 reviewed
the field and left the impression that he believed the Russian research was
competently handled and that it was worthy of attention. Since that time,
be bas, in public articles, shown his continued support of his observation
by indicating that articles to the contrary that appeared in the Russian
press were not a proper interpretation of the scientist's view.
He has not undertaken research in this area himself, but has encouraged
others such as Dr. Richard Youts of Barnard College, New York, to investi-
sate kom cases.
The author has witnessed on two or three occasions this phenomenon
in an American subject and found the individual demonstrating behavior quite
beyond his ow abilities. Others who have observed believe fraud is involved
and so it goes ... As yet, such cases of unusual behavior do not always get
objective study because of funding limitations or experimenter bias. This
particular area will continue to receive attention so long as convincing
cases ar subjects are available.
PRESSURE FOR FUNDING
As previously mentioned, there is still considerable pressure for more
funding of research in the EMP field. Various industrial companies have
sponsored the writing and submission of occasional proposals to various
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private or governmental agencies. These are usually sparked by a need to
get a quick answer to a problem not easily solved in a conventional manner.
For example, the difficulty of communicating across great distances in
space has given the ESP enthusiast inroads that were previously dented
because he supports the view that "mental energy" can be transmitted instan-
taneously. In a way, ESP is suggested as a panacea for problems which at
the moment may be or seem to be beyond the "state of the art" of the usual
discipline.
R. W. Lowrie's paper, "Aspects of Parapsychology in Communication,"
presented at a conference on "Cybernetic Aspects of Man-Machine Relation-
ships" at the University of Florida on 13 February 1965, is an example of
a plea for greater attention to the potential of Esp. This review unfor-
tunately, like most, cannot give appropriate weight to the meaningfulness
of the basic data upon which the papers are based. More in these esoteric
areas than others is it necessary to know the competence and the methodology
of the investigator before his results can be accepted as scientifically
sound and relevant. The extra care is not exercised because of a question
of deliberate fraud, but rather because of investigator bias, naivete, and
the inapplicability of some standard methodologies to these rather elusive
phenomena.
Thus, merely quoting results and findings of post research with-
out intimate knowledge of the research circumstances can be misleading and
perhaps overoptimistic.
WAT IS THE FUTURE OF ESP AND RELATED RESEARCH?
As long as man searches for an understanding of his environment and
speculates on the rationale of his place in the universe, he will continue
to be intrigued with the esoteric.
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Further breakthroughs which give more sophisticated techniques for
understanding the functioning of the mind and body perhaps will erode the
fuzziness of ESP claims and permit more precise studies of these now ephemeral
gifts or powers. Unfortunately, as has been indicated, the parapsychologist
is not apt to have the technical skills to utilize the equipment and method-
ology relevant to the problems and progress will be made by the other
scientists as an adjunct to their more conservative interests.
There are a number of research studies now in progress of acceptable
worth that will at least bear peripheral interest to the study of Esp phenomena.
1. Concern with interpersonal interactions -- somewhere here the social
or behavioral scientist is conscious of the as-yet ummeasured cues which are
registered, processed, integrated and used to assess other persons.
We
kov that individuals vary in their ability to be aware of the reaction
capability of these. We refer to this as sensitivity and classify individuals
along such a continuum. This skill, or gift, is not completely understood
butts so far it is not considered extra sensory. Perhaps it could be called
supra sensitivity. All sensory inputs contributing to a more-accurate-than-
average assessment and prediction of how this individual behaves.
Studies systematically exploring ques utilised by persons defined as
operating on this supra sensory level would help us identify the subtle
behaviors which are so rich in predictive information. It seems reasonable
to believe that top-notch salesmen operate on such cues, as do confidence men
and highly skilled diagnosticians.
Is this sensitivity a product of an unusual neurological structure? Is
it a conceptual thought processing system, unique to some? Or is it perhaps
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a single or multiple, highly developed sensory path which ve presently do
not measure effectively (an acute olfactory sense combined with other data)?
Research in this area is feasible with present techniques and may well
contribute to understanding of some aspects of the more ephemeral phenomena.
2. Environmental factors in which we operate as creatures of the universe
have long been suspected of having effects on behavior. Studies in clima-
tology, radiation and metetrology are gaining prominence and attention.
There are many less than impressive researchers in this area, but with the
development of appropriate measuring tools and the pressure to know more
about environmental and ecological factors, better scientists are becoming
interested.
The research on ionisation effect on behavior and health is spotty but
promising. Atmospheric conditions and their mark on the body and mind is
moving from old wives tale status to systematic documentation. Even effects
of gravitational factors of earth and other planets are beginning to go
beyond the astrologist charts. Radiation, man induced and natural, has
come under scrutiny by the scientific community when before all of these
subjects were discussed in science fiction or the occult. Science is
bringing system to such studies, speculation is structured as testable
hypotheses rather than hopes. Identification of the appropriate variables
are sought in order to identify the conditions under which the phenomena
can be controlled, studied and eventually isolated for cause and effect
relationships. When this is accomplished, then the phenomenon can be under-
stood and put in its propery place in the system of knowledge.
3. Fundamental to any research in the esoteric is a real understanding
of neurological function of man. There is considerable research possible
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today with the development of bioelectronic aparatus and computers that were
only in the hypothesis stage in the past. Through these studies, ve hope
to relate behavior specifically to neurological and biochemical events of
the human mechanism. Such findings will begin to permit control and mani-
pulation of the sensory-motor systems and the brain so that the limits of
our neurological input systems can be evaluated. At the same time, function
can be identified with structure."
4. Research on memory has been a popular pastime for the dabbling
of investigations for many years starting seriously from a laboratory
approach by Ebbinghaus in 1885. Most of our knowledge is concentrated in
the short-term basis because of the difficulties of studying subjects under
controlled conditions for long periods of time. This neglect of an important
knowledge area is slowly beingccorrected or adjusted. The theoretical
implications from a functional as well as organic approach to the storage
of information may have major implications for the E research.
5. The use of computers for analysis of complex data and manipulation
of response order would appear to be a tool with which new and old research
data can be examined. These techniques are certainly promising as means
of "milking" information and for isolating trends of subjects in their "hits"
or "misses" when responding to the standard ESP experiments. Some inves-
tigators in the field are quite excited about the computer's potential.
This is not a complete review of the Esp field, nor can one be written
because of the constant changes imposed on persons, attitudes, and situations.
The paper should, however, give the reader a smattering of knowledge about
the complexity of evaluating the findings of such research.
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