Paranthropology - Vol 1 No 1 - 2010 07

Magazine Overview

Title: Paranthropology: Journal of Anthropological Approaches to the Paranormal
Issue: Vol. 1 No. 1
Date: July 2010
ISSN: 2044-9216

This inaugural issue of *Paranthropology* sets out to establish itself as a platform for new research and ideas at the intersection of anthropology and the study of the paranormal. The journal aims to bridge disciplines such as psychology, parapsychology, sociology, and folklore to explore how anthropological methodologies can illuminate paranormal phenomena.

Introduction

The editorial, penned by Jack Hunter, welcomes readers to the first issue, highlighting the journal's mission to foster discussion and dissemination of research on paranormal beliefs and practices from an anthropological perspective. It emphasizes that while the focus is anthropological, it will draw from other disciplines to provide a comprehensive understanding.

The theme of this first issue, "Methodologies and Approaches," is reflected in the articles presented. These include Eric Ouellet's work on integrating psi into sociology (parasociology), Fiona Bowie's ethnographic approach to studying the afterlife, David Woollatt's methodology for studying contemporary spiritualism in media, Mark A. Schroll's historical overview of the Society for the Anthropology of Consciousness, Sarah Metcalfe's research on the dynamics of mediumship consultations, David Taylor's analysis of anomalous experiences and shamanic narrative, and Yves Marton's discussion on the nomenclature of the paranormal.

Anthropology & the Paranormal: What's the Point?

Jack Hunter’s introductory article argues for the relevance of an anthropological approach to the paranormal. He cites Andrew Lang’s 19th-century advocacy for integrating anthropological and psychical research, noting that Lang was dismayed by the lack of engagement between the two fields. Hunter explains that the discipline of transpersonal anthropology emerged in the late 1970s, with the Society for the Anthropology of Consciousness (SAC) being established in 1989 as an official section of the American Anthropological Association. This field seeks to understand the social, psychological, and spiritual mechanisms underlying paranormal manifestations, offering a richer understanding than laboratory-based parapsychology alone.

Parasociology: Integrating the Concept of Psi into Sociology

Eric Ouellet, PhD, introduces his concept of "parasociology," a sociological approach to integrating psi phenomena into sociological analysis. He notes that many sociologists ignore the paranormal or treat it solely as a belief system. Ouellet's work focuses on UFO phenomena as a social psi effect, drawing parallels between the 1952 UFO wave over Washington D.C. and Recurrent Spontaneous Psychokinesis (RSPK) phenomena, suggesting a link between social dynamics and macro psi effects. He is also studying the Canadian UFO wave of 1966-1967, exploring social tensions as a potential factor. Future research will include the Airship wave of 1896-97, the French UFO wave of 1954, American UFO waves, and crop circles, as well as ghosts and haunting.

Methods for studying the paranormal (and who says what is normal anyway?)

Dr. Fiona Bowie discusses the challenges and approaches to studying the paranormal. She highlights the diversity of methodologies within social science, ranging from positivist and experimental to humanistic and interpretive. Bowie emphasizes the importance of "cognitive, empathetic engagement," a method that requires observers to immerse themselves in the worldview of their informants without presupposing any particular standpoint. This approach acknowledges that reality is mediated through our senses and prior experiences, including our spiritual and cognitive capacities. She argues that understanding the paranormal requires engaging with the subjective experiences and cultural contexts of individuals, rather than dismissing them as unscientific.

The Anthropology of Consciousness: Investigating the Frontiers of Unexplainable Personal and Cultural Phenomena (Part 1)

Mark A. Schroll, PhD, begins a two-part article on the history of the Society for the Anthropology of Consciousness (SAC). He traces its origins to a symposium organized in 1977 for the American Anthropology Association meetings. The formation of the Association for Transpersonal Anthropology (ATA) in 1980, and its subsequent schisms and reorganizations, led to the establishment of the Association for the Anthropological Study of Consciousness (AASC) in 1980, which later became the SAC. Schroll details the early debates within the field regarding methodology and legitimacy, and the eventual acceptance of SAC as a division of the AAA in 1990.

Contemporary Spiritualism, it's Shifting Meanings and use as Spectacle

David Woollatt examines the rise of paranormal and ghost hunting TV shows in contemporary British society. He questions whether consumers of these shows seek genuine awareness of spiritualism or if the media is merely exploiting it for spectacle. Woollatt's research tracks the shifts in meanings generated through media platforms, comparing contemporary understandings of spiritualism with its traditional beliefs and seven principles, particularly highlighting the contrast between the spiritualist emphasis on love and the media's focus on fear and vengeance.

Measuring the Circle: Contemporary Anomalistic Experiences and Shamanic Narrative

David Taylor shares his long-term investigation of anomalous experiences, including hauntings, apparitions, and alien abductions. He recounts an ethnographic investigation of a 'haunted house' in Birmingham, focusing on the transpersonal elements of a teenage girl's dreams about her deceased brother. Taylor draws parallels between these experiences and shamanistic traditions, particularly the concept of a 'death' and rebirth in the spirit realm. He suggests that anomalous experiences might be fragments of a primal reality that bridge internal and external worlds, and that they should be considered within their historical and cultural contexts.

The Therapeutic, Ethical and Relational Dynamics of Mediumship and Psychic Consultations

Sarah Metcalfe explores the sociological implications of mediumship and psychic practices. She notes that these practitioners often function as a form of lay counseling, addressing life and relationship complexities. Metcalfe's research focuses on the emotional labor involved in these consultations and the ethical issues that arise. She highlights that while these services can be therapeutic, they also prompt addictive tendencies and can impinge on clients' identities. Her work aims to understand the social consequences of these interactions, drawing on theories of emotional labor.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the methodologies and approaches to studying the paranormal, emphasizing the importance of anthropological and sociological perspectives. The journal advocates for a holistic understanding that considers the social, cultural, and psychological contexts of paranormal phenomena, moving beyond purely laboratory-based or reductionist approaches. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging the exploration of diverse viewpoints and the integration of different disciplines to better understand the complex nature of the paranormal.

Title: Paranthropology: Journal of Anthropological Approaches to the Paranormal
Issue: Vol. 1 No. 1
Date: October 2010 (implied by 'Next Issue' date)

This inaugural issue of Paranthropology Journal delves into the complex relationship between anthropology and the study of the paranormal. It features articles, reviews, and resource listings aimed at bridging these two fields.

Article: A Rose by Any Name is Still a Rose: The Nomenclature of the Paranormal

Authored by Yves Marton, this article examines the distinct ways in which anthropology and parapsychology name and approach phenomena. Marton highlights how different terminologies can create distinct groupings and senses of belonging within these disciplines. While anthropology often uses terms like 'shaman' to refer to ancient knowledge and rituals, parapsychology is more comfortable with terms like 'medium' or 'spirit-medium'. The author notes that the term 'paranormal' itself is a key concept that places parapsychology outside conventional science. He traces the historical use of related terms such as 'psychical', 'supernormal', 'supranormal', and 'supernatural', noting how these terms have been adopted and modified. The article references the work of scholars like Ian Stevenson, Eileen Garrett, and folklorists like Ward and Hufford, as well as anthropologist I.M. Lewis, who explored the 'supernatural'. Marton points out that the term 'paranormal' has been in use for many years, with an early use by Barnouw in 1946 in an article titled "Paranormal Phenomena and Culture". He concludes that while anthropology values vivid description and intellectual sophistication, parapsychology focuses on the paranormal, psi, testing, and validity. The article emphasizes the need for a shared understanding and approach to phenomena that are often marginalized.

Article: "Immortal Longings: F.W.H. Myers and the Victorian Search for Life after Death" by Trevor Hamilton (Review)

This review, authored by David Taylor, discusses Trevor Hamilton's book on Frederic W. H. Myers, a key figure in the Society for Psychical Research (SPR). The review highlights the context of the late 19th century, a period of despair and questioning following Darwinism, where many sought evidence for life after death. Myers, a Cambridge scholar, lost his faith but was deeply concerned with death anxiety. Hamilton's book details Myers' efforts, alongside colleagues Edmund Gurney and Henry Sidgwick, to scientifically study paranormal phenomena. The review touches on Myers' personal life, his intellectual influences, and his collaboration with Gurney and Sidgwick. It also discusses the concept of 'cross-correspondences', interpreted as attempts by deceased researchers to overcome objections to mediumship. The review notes that while Myers was convinced of survival after death through his sittings with mediums like Mrs. Piper and Mrs. Thompson, his wider hope of establishing immortality for the masses remained unfulfilled. The article concludes by suggesting that the foundation laid by Myers and the SPR is increasingly appreciated.

Article: "Lore of the Ghost" by Brian Haughton (Review)

This review, by Michael E. Tymn, discusses Brian Haughton's book, which traces the origins of famous ghost motifs. Haughton, an archaeologist and folklorist, explores the historical and folkloric roots of ghost lore, including the Wild Hunt and the 'Woman in White'. The review emphasizes that Haughton convincingly shows how modern reports of phantom horsemen relate to the Wild Hunt tradition. It highlights the book's strong historical element, suggesting that many apparitional experiences have pre-Christian origins. Tymn praises Haughton's ability to guide the reader through extensive historical literature and argues that folklorists and cultural anthropologists are well-suited to investigate the paranormal due to the complex, multi-faceted nature of narrative folklore.

Article: "Sum: Tales from the Afterlives" by David Eagleman (Review)

Authored by Jack Hunter, this review discusses David Eagleman's short book, which presents forty brief sections of prose detailing potential afterlife scenarios. Eagleman, a neuroscientist, describes the book as a manifesto for 'possibilianism', a theoretical position that encourages considering multiple possibilities rather than adhering to a strict dichotomy between theism and atheism. The review notes that the book has received significant publicity and praise for its creativity and ability to induce awe at the infinite possible realities surrounding us.

News and Events

The 'News' section announces that Jack Hunter and Dr. David Luke are editing an interdisciplinary volume on mediumship, with contributions from various scholars. It also lists upcoming conferences:

• Exploring the Extraordinary Conference: September 24-25, 2010, University of York.
• The Fortean Times UnConvention: October 23-24, 2010.

The 'Events' section lists several conferences and conventions:

• 53rd Annual Convention of the Parapsychological Association: July 22-25, 2010, Paris.
• Weird Paranormal and UFO Conference 2010: August 21-22, 2010, Warminster.
• International Conference on Myth, Literature and the Unconscious: September 2-4, 2010, University of Essex.
• 34th International Annual Conference of the Society for Psychical Research: September 10, 2010, University of Sheffield.
• 4th Annual Conference of the Transpersonal Psychology Section of British Psychological Society: September 17-20, 2010, Scarborough.

Keynote Speaker: Dr David Clarke

Dr David Clarke, an investigative journalist, author, and broadcaster, is highlighted as the keynote speaker for the 'Exploring the Extraordinary' conference. The conference, which began in 2007, aims to provide a supportive network for those researching extraordinary experiences, including paranormal, supernatural, and mystical phenomena.

Useful Resources

This section provides a comprehensive list of websites and organizations related to parapsychology, spirituality, and anomalous phenomena, including the Parapsychological Association, Parasearch, Rhine Research Centre, and various academic and research units.

Next Issue

The next issue, available in October 2010, will focus on "Paranormal Encounters in the Field." The journal invites contributions for articles and personal accounts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently explores the intersection of anthropology and parapsychology, advocating for a more open and interdisciplinary approach to the study of paranormal phenomena. It seeks to bridge the gap between conventional scientific methods and the subjective experiences often studied in psychical research. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging rigorous yet open-minded investigation, valuing both ethnographic detail and scientific inquiry. There is a clear emphasis on the historical development of ideas in the field, particularly concerning nomenclature and the evolution of research methodologies. The journal also highlights the importance of resources and events within the paranormal research community.