Metaphors and lay theories of psi experiences

Author(s): Dutton, D.

Journal/Book: J Amer Soc Psychical Res. 1998; 92: 5 West 73RD Street, New York, NY 10023. Amer Soc Psychical Res Inc. 52-68.

Abstract: Within the parapsychological literature particular metaphors seem to be employed to convey different views of paranormal experiences. Three main metaphors seem to be used by psychical researchers and parapsychologists. Williams (1996) termed these intrusions (focused on the idea of entities), transmissions (viewing psi as a signal), and connections (where psi is seen as a result of the fundamentally interconnected-holistic-nature of reality). To explore this idea further, three open-ended questions concerning explanations of different paranormal phenomena (ESP, Ghosts, and PK) were put to a sample of experimental participants. These participants were asked to explain in their own words what they thought might be occurring in each of these kinds of experiences. The results of a content analysis indicated that respondents, like parapsychologists, frequently employ these three core metaphors. The frequency and type of core metaphors as well novel metaphors and non-metaphorical explanations are reported.

Note: Article Williams C, Liverpool Hope Univ Coll, Dept Psychol, Hope Pk, Liverpool L16 9JD, Merseyside, ENGLAND

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