parapsychology etymology

Etymology:

  • Para- (Greek): "beside," "beyond," or "alongside"
  • Psychology (Greek): "study of the mind"

Meaning and Origin:

Parapsychology is a field of study that investigates phenomena that are allegedly outside the realm of normal scientific explanation, such as extrasensory perception (ESP), psychokinesis, and near-death experiences.

The term "parapsychology" was first coined in 1889 by the American philosopher and psychologist James Hyslop. It was originally intended to refer to the study of a wide range of phenomena, including telepathy, clairvoyance, and spirit communication.

Over time, the definition of parapsychology has narrowed to focus specifically on the investigation of ESP, psychokinesis, and related phenomena. These phenomena are typically tested under laboratory conditions, using rigorous scientific methods to rule out the effects of fraud, deception, and unconscious bias.

Skepticism and Controversy:

Parapsychology remains a controversial field, with many scientists and skeptics questioning the validity of its findings. Critics argue that the evidence for ESP and psychokinesis is inconclusive and that many parapsychology studies have been poorly designed or flawed.

Despite the skepticism, parapsychology continues to attract researchers and enthusiasts who believe that there is a genuine possibility that certain mental phenomena cannot be fully explained by science.

parapsychology relate terms

  • psychology

    Etymology Psycho from Greek psyche meaning mind soul or breath logy from Gree

  • psyche

    Etymology The word psyche comes from the ancient Greek word ψυχή psukhē mean

  • para

    Etymology The word para originates from the Greek preposition παρά pará which

  • clairvoyance

    Etymology French clairvoyance from Middle French clervoiance from Old French cler c

  • psychic

    Etymology The word psychic has its roots in the ancient Greek word psykhe which mea

  • psychic

    Etymology The word psychic has its roots in the ancient Greek word psykhe which mea

  • phenomenon

    Etymology Greek phainomenon Phainein to appear Meaning A natural occurrence

  • abeyance

    Etymology The word abeyance comes from the Old French word abeance which means cess

  • inflation

    Etymology Inflation derives from the Latin word inflatio genitive inflationis mea

  • qualitative

    Qualitative Etymology Meaning The study of the origins and development of words with a f

  • coach

    Etymology The word coach derives from the Hungarian word kocsi which referred to a

  • robust

    Etymology The word robust comes from the Latin word robur meaning oak tree Mean

  • glitch

    Etymology Originally a sudden involuntary movement of a muscle or group of muscles