Paranthropology - Vol 5 No 2

Magazine Overview

Title: Paranthropology: Journal of Anthropological Approaches to the Paranormal
Issue: Vol. 5 No. 2
Date: January 2014 (Vol. 5 No. 1 is dated January 2014, implying this issue is later in the same volume year)
Publisher: Paranthropology
Country: United States
Language: English

Editorial Introduction: Exploring the Extraordinary

The issue opens with an editorial by Hannah Gilbert, who introduces the concept of the 'extraordinary' as that which "typically transcends the mundane." She defines it as encompassing the supernatural, paranormal, exceptional, anomalous, magical, spiritual, religious, uncanny, and transcendent. Gilbert notes that while some extraordinary occurrences are unexpected and life-changing, others are subtle and integrated into social beliefs and behaviors. She highlights the academic debate between those who favor explanations of extraordinary realities and those who attribute them to human psychology, perception, and desires. The editorial critiques the limitations of a purely rationalist-materialist scientific framework, suggesting that it can be too rigid and fail to account for its own biases. It advocates for more immersive methods of study and a critical examination of how scientific research is conducted and presented.

The 'Exploring the Extraordinary' initiative, which began in the mid-2000s within a sociology department at the University of York, UK, is described. Initially focused on discursive analysis of how people talk about extraordinary experiences, the group expanded to include individuals from diverse backgrounds in anthropology, psychology, and sociology. They sought to develop reflexive, interdisciplinary perspectives for a holistic understanding of the extraordinary. A key concern was how to portray the lived experiences of individuals, lamenting that some research reduces mediums to mere statistics rather than acknowledging their agency and sensuous presence.

The initiative faced challenges as their interests were not always mainstream within their academic institutions. The development of an email discussion list attracted a wide range of interdisciplinary members, revealing significant enthusiasm for the study of the extraordinary. The editorial also addresses the risks researchers face when studying subjects deemed 'unworthy' by mainstream academia, noting the potential for criticism and the need for open discussion and debate, citing the controversy around Rupert Sheldrake's TEDx talk as an example.

The term 'extraordinary' was chosen over terms like 'paranormal' or 'anomalous' to avoid language that might be too restrictive, Western-centric, or imbued with negative connotations. The influence of David Young and Jean-Guy Goulet's work on extraordinary experiences is acknowledged. The editorial emphasizes that extraordinary experiences are not necessarily abnormal but rather transcend the mundane and have significant consequences, often being an integral part of everyday life in many societies.

Exploring the Extraordinary Conferences

The editorial details the development of the 'Exploring the Extraordinary' conferences, starting with a small event at the University of York in 2009 and growing into a larger, multi-day event by 2010. These conferences aim to provide a focal point for the extraordinary, distinct from minor symposiums within broader academic conferences. The diversity of topics and speakers, including those from folkloric, psychological, philosophical, and sociological backgrounds, has been a key factor in the initiative's growth. The conferences have also increasingly incorporated presentations and feedback from 'experients' and practitioners, highlighting the importance of the 'human' side of research and the ethics of using people in research projects.

The future of 'Exploring the Extraordinary' is discussed, noting the success of their sixth conference in Gettysburg, USA. The initiative operates as a small, volunteer-run organization, leveraging technological advancements to connect globally. The cross-cultural nature of the extraordinary and its research is emphasized, with a desire to establish wider links. The editorial expresses hope for the continued growth and diversity of 'Exploring the Extraordinary' and its conferences.

Articles and Reviews

Profane Illuminations: Machines, Indian Ghosts, and Boundless Flights through Nature at Contemporary Paranormal Gatherings in America

By Darryl Caterine, this article explores the author's three-year ethnographic and historical research into contemporary American paranormal gatherings. Starting in the summer of 2007, Caterine attended events such as the Lily Dale Spiritualist camp, the American Society of Dowsers convention, and the Roswell UFO Festival. He discusses how Americans make sense of awe-inspiring events and beings that do not fit into the established order of things. Caterine notes the historical obsession with the paranormal in America, dating back to mesmerism in 1836, and the inclusion of phenomena like bilocations and phantom animals by Charles Fort. He highlights Jeffrey Kripal's suggestion that the paranormal represents "the sacred in transit" and offers an opportunity to consider Rudolph Otto's concept of the "totally other." The article delves into the complexity of explaining phenomena like dowsing, where interpretations range from metaphysical to naturalistic. Caterine identifies a recurring "complex narrative" that weaves together machines, Indian ghosts, and flights through nature, which he argues reflects a modern American identity rooted in "cosmological rootlessness."

Magic or Science: A Look at Reiki in American Medicine

By Joshua Graham.

Hidden Apprenticeships, Hidden Loves: Transmission of Enhanced Awareness in Mediumistic and Shamanic Traditions

By David Gordon Wilson.

Communication Across the Chasm: Experiences With the Deceased

By John A. Napora.

Book Hauntings

By Mark Valentine.

Orbs, some definitive evidence that they are not paranormal

By Steven T. Parsons.

Interview: Andy Sharp (English Heretic)

Conducted by Hannah Gilbert.

Playback Hex: William Burroughs and the Magical Objectivity of the Tape Recorder

By James Riley. This article examines William Burroughs and the concept of magical objectivity related to the tape recorder.

REVIEW: Exploring the Extraordinary Conference (Gettysburg College, March 21 to 23)

By T. Peter Park.

REVIEW: 'Folie et Paranormal' by Renaud Evrard

By Jean-Michel Abrassart.

REVIEW: 'Speak of the Devil: Tales of Satanic Abuse in Contemporary England' by J.S. La Fontaine

By Michael J. Rush.

Other Content

• Board of Reviewers: A comprehensive list of academics and their affiliations who serve as reviewers for the journal.
• Honorary Members of the Board: A list of distinguished individuals in the field.
• Editors: Jack Hunter and Dr. Hannah Gilbert.
• Cover Artwork: Andy Sharp.
• References: Includes citations for works by Michael Brown and Emily McManus regarding Rupert Sheldrake's TEDx talk.
• Online Presence: Details for the 'Exploring the Extraordinary' website, Facebook pages, and an interview with Dr. Hannah Gilbert.
• Book Review Snippet: A description of "Conversations with Ghosts" by Alex Tanous, D.D., with Callum E. Cooper, highlighting Tanous's work with the American Society for Psychical Research and his investigations into ghostly phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the anthropological study of the paranormal and the 'extraordinary.' There is a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research, reflexive methodologies, and the importance of understanding subjective experiences within their cultural contexts. The journal and the 'Exploring the Extraordinary' initiative advocate for an open-minded and respectful approach to these topics, encouraging dialogue between believers, skeptics, and those with varying perspectives. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to understand the cultural and social significance of paranormal beliefs and experiences rather than solely validating or dismissing them. There is a clear critique of overly rigid scientific frameworks and a call for more nuanced and humanistic approaches to research.

This issue of PARANTHROPOLOGY: JOURNAL OF ANTHROPOLOGICAL APPROACHES TO THE PARANORMAL, Volume 5, Number 2, dated Spring 1948, explores the complex interplay between paranormal phenomena, technology, and cultural mythology in modern America. The cover features a stylized illustration of a flying saucer hovering over a landscape, with the main headline suggesting that 'The paranormal is indeed the normal state of affairs in modern America.'

The Influence of Richard Shaver and Ray Palmer

The issue begins by recounting the author's encounter with the seminal issue of *Amazing Stories*, founded by Ray Palmer following the 1947 UFO sightings by pilot Kenneth Arnold. Among the paranormal topics featured, an advertisement for the book *I Remember Lemuria* by Richard Sharpe Shaver catches the author's eye. Shaver, a welder, claimed to receive intelligent messages from his welding gun, which led to the development of a narrative about an advanced, morally depraved antediluvian civilization called Lemuria, which survived underground after a flood 24,000 years ago. These subterranean beings, known as 'deros,' were intent on destroying modern civilization. Ray Palmer, convinced of Shaver's story, co-authored several stories based on these experiences and featured them in *Amazing Stories* as embellishments of non-fictional truths. This editorial decision led to reader engagement but also cost Palmer his position with the magazine.

Technology as a Mediator of the Paranormal

The article highlights how technology plays a crucial role in understanding paranormal phenomena. From Shaver's sentient welding gun to the concept of mediums as 'downloading information from the Universe' like human computers, technology is often intertwined with the paranormal. The author notes the historical comparison of mediums to telegraph machines and the use of quantum physics explanations by dowsers. The fascination with machines extends to ufology, where the question of how aliens overcome vast interstellar distances is explored through the lens of aviation and engineering advancements. The article posits that machines are not merely metaphors for interconnectedness but are instruments that help bring into being a new kind of society.

The 'Other' in Paranormal Narratives

The journal examines how the concept of the 'other' is represented in paranormal discourse. This includes the 'non-European Others,' such as Native Americans invoked by Spiritualists and the 'deros' from Lemuria. The article draws parallels between the depiction of aliens and Native Americans in colonialist narratives, suggesting that both are often portrayed as either noble, advanced beings or savage threats. The author references H.G. Wells' *War of the Worlds* as an example of how colonialist ideas influenced early science fiction and alien narratives. Alien abduction stories are also discussed as uncanny replications of Indian Captivity Narratives.

Spiritualism, Dowsing, and Earth Mysteries

The issue delves into the history and practices of Spiritualism and dowsing. Spiritualist mediums, often claiming to channel spirits of the dead or Native American guides, are seen as embodying the identity of modern citizens. Dowsers, in their search for underground water or hidden objects, are described as using tools and theories that resonate with unseen waves, sometimes incorporating concepts from quantum physics. The article mentions the 'Earth Mysteries' tradition and the work of Sir Alfred Watkins in connecting prehistoric ruins with energetic 'ley lines.'

The Paranormal as a Reflection of Modernity

The journal argues that the paranormal discourse offers a unique perspective on modernity, revealing gaps in our collective mythology. These gaps include the paradox of the 'imagined community' sustained by technology, the exclusion of prehistoric 'Others' from national history, and the concept of living 'in nature' as a translocal, ahistorical realm. The paranormal, in its various forms, is presented as a fictive dimension of history, archeology, and anthropology, attempting to explain humanity's place in the cosmos and the Earth.

Cosmic Travelogues and the Search for Meaning

The issue concludes by discussing the recurrence of 'paranormal travelogues,' from Andrew Jackson Davis' *The Principles of Nature* to Hélène Smith's journeys to Mars and John Michell's *The View Over Atlantis*. These narratives, whether penned by authors or channeled, reflect a modern conception of Nature as a boundless domain and an exploration of the universe. The article highlights the idea that in a world where conventional maps fail to orient us, the paranormal offers a way to understand our place and the 'otherness' we encounter.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the pervasive influence of the paranormal in American culture, its deep entanglement with technological advancements, and its role in shaping modern identity and understanding of the world. The journal's stance appears to be analytical and anthropological, seeking to understand the cultural and historical roots of these phenomena rather than simply accepting them at face value. It emphasizes how paranormal beliefs reflect broader societal anxieties, desires, and the ongoing construction of meaning in a rapidly changing world.

This issue of Paranthropology, Volume 5, Number 2, is titled "PARANTHROPOLOGY: JOURNAL OF ANTHROPOLOGICAL APPROACHES TO THE PARANORMAL." It features a cover story on "Magic or Science: A Look at Reiki in American Medicine" by Joshua Graham. The issue explores various facets of the paranormal, including historical phenomena, ufology, spiritualism, and dowsing, and examines their place within contemporary culture and scientific discourse.

Articles and Content

Magic or Science: A Look at Reiki in American Medicine (Joshua Graham)

This extensive article by Joshua Graham investigates the integration of Reiki, an energy healing modality, into modern American medical institutions. Graham begins by illustrating a scenario where magic and bioscience are not entirely separate, setting the stage to explore Reiki's position within this dichotomy. He notes that reputable medical centers like Boston Children's Hospital, Yale New Haven Hospital, and John Hopkins are incorporating Reiki into their services.

The author proposes that by using Reiki, Western medical science blurs the barriers between magic and modern bioscience. He suggests that an anthropological lens can view this as an embodied phenomenological event. The methodology employed involves a phenomenological approach, specifically Husserl's concept of epoché, which emphasizes suspending judgment to understand the complex web of meaning surrounding biomedical and 'magical' practices.

Graham discusses the historical context of Reiki, its roots in Buddhist cosmologies, and the tension between its use as a magical system versus a science. He contrasts the Westernized dualism of spirit and matter with Reiki's focus on the recipient's experience, describing it as 'soothing, nurturing, and restoring.' The article questions whether Reiki meets the definition of magic, noting that while traditional definitions of magic might not be a perfect fit, Reiki's reliance on secret, initiatory skills and lack of empirical measurement align with certain aspects of magic.

Furthermore, Graham examines Reiki's place within Western biomedicine, highlighting that while it is not a strictly biomedical practice due to its lack of accreditation and standardized training, it is increasingly utilized. He points to the rise in complementary therapies and the fact that "more than 30,000 nurses 'are estimated to practice touch therapies.'" The article concludes that while Reiki may not fit the definition of Western biomedicine, its popularity stems from its holistic approach, its ability to foster a personal connection between practitioner and recipient, and its potential for transformation, fulfilling a need that traditional biomedicine sometimes overlooks.

Historical Context of Paranormal Phenomena

The issue provides historical context for various paranormal concepts. The word "paranormal" is traced to the early twentieth century, defined as phenomena analogous to physical ones but without known physical causes. Early examples are linked to the healing practices of Franz Anton Mesmer in the eighteenth century, which sparked debate and led to a royal commission in France in 1784.

Spiritualism is discussed as emerging in America in 1848 with the Fox sisters, leading to its flourishing throughout the nineteenth century and institutionalization in summer camps like Lily Dale.

Dowsing, or divining, is described as a method for finding objects or answers using rods or pendulums, with its earliest text dating back to Georgius Agricola's 1556 "De Re Metallica." The American Society of Dowsers was founded in 1960.

Ufology and Close Encounters

The modern era of ufology is marked by Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting of "flying saucers," which initiated waves of UFO activity. J. Allen Hynek's classification of "Close Encounters" is detailed, including the First Kind (sightings), Second Kind (physical traces), and Third Kind (animate beings). Alien abduction and telepathic communication were later added as Fourth and Fifth Kind encounters.

The publication of "The Roswell Incident" in 1980 by Charles Berlitz and William Moore is highlighted for revitalizing interest in ufology, claiming the US Army had recovered a crashed flying saucer. This led to the first Roswell UFO Festival in 1996.

Other Mentions

The issue also references various academic works and authors, including Jeffrey J. Kripal's "Authors of the Impossible," Darryl Caterine's "Haunted Ground: Journeys through a Paranormal America," and the work of Walter Benjamin, Andrew Greeley, Michael Barkun, and Barbara Weisberg.

It touches upon "Earth Mysteries," a discourse on geophysical energies and prehistoric architecture, and mentions figures like Paul Devereux and John Michell.

Methodological Approaches

The article on Reiki emphasizes the importance of phenomenological theory and Husserl's epoché in understanding subjective experiences and integrating them into research, particularly in medical anthropology. It argues that a Western rational approach cannot fully capture the experiential elements of illness and healing.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this issue is the exploration of the boundaries between the rational and the irrational, the scientific and the magical, particularly within the context of American culture. The journal adopts an anthropological perspective, seeking to understand the cultural, historical, and social factors that contribute to the enduring fascination with paranormal phenomena.

The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, using academic frameworks like phenomenology and anthropology to analyze and contextualize these phenomena rather than dismissing them outright. There is a clear interest in how these beliefs and practices shape individual experiences and societal discourse, especially in the realm of healing and medicine. The journal encourages a deeper, more nuanced understanding of the paranormal, moving beyond simplistic dichotomies of true/false or science/magic.

Title: Paranthropology: Journal of Anthropological Approaches to the Paranormal
Issue: Vol. 5 No. 2
Date: July 2014
Publisher: Paranthropology
Country: USA

This issue of Paranthropology delves into the complex intersections of consciousness, spirituality, and cultural practices, with a particular focus on shamanism, mediumship, and experiences with the deceased.

Hidden Apprenticeships, Hidden Loves: Transmission of Enhanced Awareness in Mediumistic and Shamanic Traditions

David Gordon Wilson's article, based on a presentation at the Exploring the Extraordinary Conference (EtE5) in York, explores the concept of apprenticeship in both shamanic and Spiritualist traditions. Wilson argues that Spiritualist mediumship, particularly as experienced in his time as a developing medium at Portobello Spiritualist Church, can be understood as a form of indigenous or traditional shamanism. He posits that the apprenticeship model, involving learning to communicate with spirit guides and manage personal awareness to engage with additional realities, is a common thread.

Wilson contrasts Mircea Eliade's focus on 'travelling' or 'journeying' with Sergei Shirokogoroff's emphasis on the possessory aspects of shamanism, particularly the incarnation of spirits of the dead. Shirokogoroff's work on the Evenki shamans is highlighted, noting his identification of apprenticeship as a key, yet difficult-to-access, structure. Wilson suggests that his own experiences as a medium mirror this structure, involving a process of learning and developing relationships with spirit guides, facilitated by existing practitioners.

He critiques academic models that often view shamanism as belonging to 'other' cultures, overlooking its presence in Western contexts. Wilson advocates for ethnographic explorations based on apprentice-participation, arguing that this approach can lead to a more adventurous and revealing anthropology that encompasses the 'para' (paranormal).

Communication Across the Chasm: Experiences With the Deceased

John A. Napora's article examines the anthropological neglect of experiences with the spirits of the deceased, particularly in secular societies. He uses the story of Michael Harner's ayahuasca experience and a Conibo shaman's interpretation to underscore the idea that 'spirits are real.' Napora argues that these experiences, often dismissed or marginalized, resonate with non-Western beliefs and broaden our understanding of the human condition.

The core of Napora's paper presents a case study of a working-class family in Western Pennsylvania who experienced the spirit of the recently deceased father. The experiences, primarily involving the son, included a choking sensation upon waking (mirroring the father's death), a dream involving a dog (identified with the father), and a disturbing dream of a figure resembling the father. These experiences, though initially unsettling, provided a means of coping and closure for the family.

However, this functionality was shattered by a subsequent dream where the father spoke of going to 'Dave's place,' which was later revealed to be a forewarning of the sister's impending diagnosis with liver cancer. Napora concludes by agreeing with Michael Harner that spirits are real, advocating for an 'ontological turn' in anthropology that gives credence to the beliefs and experiences of individuals, regardless of cultural context.

Spiritual Psychiatries: A Review

The issue includes a review of Natalie Tobert's book, 'Spiritual Psychiatries.' The review highlights Tobert's extensive fieldwork and interviews across the Indian subcontinent, exploring the intersection of Indian spirituality, traditional medical practices, and mental health. The book is presented as a blueprint for improving Western understanding of mental health by incorporating deeply held cultural and spiritual beliefs, offering a holistic view of psychiatric treatment.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Paranthropology consistently explores the boundaries between the material and the spiritual, the academic and the experiential. It champions the anthropological study of phenomena often dismissed by mainstream science, advocating for methodologies that embrace subjective experience and cross-cultural understanding. The journal's stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the paranormal and the 'para,' encouraging research that challenges conventional Western worldviews and embraces the full spectrum of human experience.

Submissions are open for Paranthropology Vol. 5 No. 3 (July 2014), with a deadline of July 12th, 2014.

This issue of Paranthropology, Vol. 5 No. 2, published around March 2014, delves into various aspects of the paranormal and unexplained, with a particular focus on subtle experiences and photographic evidence. The journal's title, 'PARANTHROPOLOGY: JOURNAL OF ANTHROPOLOGICAL APPROACHES TO THE PARANORMAL', sets the tone for its academic yet accessible exploration of unusual phenomena.

Book Hauntings by Mark Valentine

Mark Valentine's essay, 'Book Hauntings', explores the less dramatic but equally profound experiences within the field of the unexplained, focusing on book collecting. He illustrates three types of unusual experiences: the certainty of knowing a specific book is present, the uncanny skill of finding books, and being drawn to an unknown but important book.

Valentine recounts an anecdote involving Arthur Machen and A.E. Waite, where Waite had a strong premonition about a specific book in a shop, leading to the discovery of a rare Penny Dreadful, 'The Old House in West Street'. This experience is presented as an example of 'knowing' a book is there.

The essay then discusses the concept of 'magnetic fingers', where collectors feel an innate ability to locate desired books. This is linked to John Gawsworth, who wrote an essay on this topic. Gawsworth's experience is prefaced by a quote from the Irish poet and mystic 'A. E.' (George William Russell), who observed a similar phenomenon with his friend, the poet and book collector Seamus O'Sullivan.

'A. E.' theorized that books might develop a consciousness or sensitivity to 'true book-lovers', summoning them. This idea is further explored by considering how books, once printed, might gain a consciousness or be imbued with it by readers over time.

Valentine also touches upon the 'strand of thought' phenomenon, where scholars and researchers suddenly find books containing the insights they need, questioning whether this is due to heightened alertness or another subtle energy.

The essay highlights the romantic aspect of book collecting, quoting rare book dealer Rick Gekoski, who likens it to a 'treasure hunt' for buried, misunderstood objects of cultural and commercial value.

A Toronto bookstore, 'The Monkey's Paw', is cited for its philosophy of stocking books customers didn't know they were looking for, emphasizing the idea of finding books that resonate on an unconscious level.

Walter de la Mare's short story 'The Green Room' is used as a fictional example of unknown books calling to readers, featuring a ghost in a bookshop. Geoffrey Ashe, an Arthurian author, shares an experience of finding a crucial, rare book that catalyzed his writing, describing it as a 'damned unlikely place' and 'right time'.

Valentine concludes that while unexpected finds are common in book collecting, there might be a subtle sorcery at play, suggesting that books themselves may call to collectors.

Orbs, some definitive evidence that they are not paranormal by Steven T. Parsons

Steven T. Parsons' article investigates the phenomenon of 'orbs' in paranormal photography. The paper traces the history of orb photography, the technology of digital cameras, and the claims made for the paranormal nature of orbs. Studies from 1998-2003 led to a better understanding of how orbs are produced by normal camera operations, though this did not fully sway the paranormal community.

A new experimental study in 2009, using a newly developed stereo digital camera, conclusively demonstrated that orbs are produced by well-understood means rather than paranormal anomalies.

The introduction explains that the advent of digital imaging in the late 1990s revolutionized amateur paranormal research, leading to the discovery of 'orbs' – bright circular anomalies in images. These were initially seen as evidence of ghosts or otherworldly beings. The internet is replete with such claims, with millions of hits for the search term 'orbs'. Noel Edmonds, a TV star, famously claimed his deceased parents appeared as 'melon sized orbs' visible only on digital cameras.

The article discusses books that promote the paranormal nature of orbs, such as 'Ascension Through Orbs', which suggests spiritual enlightenment can be gained by interacting with them. However, many paranormal investigators now acknowledge that dust, flying insects, and water vapor are likely causes, though they often maintain that a small percentage (1-2%) remain unexplained.

Parsons then details the evolution of digital photography, from early, expensive cameras with low resolution to modern high-pixel-density sensors. He explains the role of the Charge Coupled Device (CCD) and CMOS sensors. A key issue was the cameras' sensitivity to infra-red (IR) light, which could cause strange color casts. This sensitivity was sometimes exploited for night-vision capabilities.

The 'Early Orbs' section describes the author's own experience in 1998 at Ellesmere Port's Boat Museum, where bright circular anomalies, or 'lightballs', were captured in digital photos. These anomalies appeared to move and were not initially explained by camera faults. A subsequent investigation at an old school, where a ghostly figure was reported, also captured orbs on a Sony night-vision camera.

Other investigators began posting similar orb pictures online, leading to the phenomenon being named 'Orbs' in the USA. Theories ranged from ghostly manifestations to poltergeist activity and even angels. Some claimed to discern the sex of entities by orb color.

Studies by Para.Science and ASSAP (Association for the Scientific Study of Anomalous Phenomena) suggested that orbs were most likely caused by light reflecting from the camera's flash or infra-red lights, especially when airborne objects were close to the lens within a specific angular range, termed the 'Orb Zone'. While these studies acknowledged airborne matter as a probable cause, the inability to conclusively prove it left the debate open.

Parsons describes an experiment using a Fujifilm W1 3D digital camera, which has two lenses and sensors, to test the orb hypothesis. This stereo photography technique allowed for precise testing of whether anomalies appeared in both images (indicating distance) or only one (indicating proximity to the camera).

The results of examining 1,870 stereo pairs showed orbs in 630 pairs. Crucially, in 491 pairs, orbs appeared in only one image, and in 139 pairs, orbs appeared in both but not corresponding to the same object. A control series of over 1,000 stereo pictures in non-haunted locations yielded identical results, with no orbs observed in corresponding positions.

The conclusion is that orbs are produced by airborne material close to the camera, supporting the 'Orb Zone' hypothesis. The survey found that 0% of the captured orbs were anomalous, demonstrating that they are 100% explainable by mundane causes.

Interview: Andy Sharp (English Heretic) by Hannah Gilbert

This interview with Andy Sharp, the creator of 'English Heretic', explores the project's origins and philosophy. Sharp explains that 'English Heretic' evolved from his 'Lost Objects' project, which involved leaving CDs at symbolically significant locations. The concept was inspired by the Buddhist Terma tradition, aiming to subvert the record industry's material distribution and attachment to creativity.

The project was specifically influenced by the proximity of Michael Reeves's final resting place. Sharp felt compelled to commemorate the horror film maker, scattering his ashes and leaving a CD plaque. This led to the idea of commemorating alternate histories of tragic figures with 'Black Plaques', a subversion of 'English Heritage'.

Sharp believes that mainstream 'historical guardian' organizations like English Heritage steer away from extraordinary history due to a lack of awareness and what sells to the public. He contrasts this with publications like Fortean Times, which cover more marginal topics. He links 'magic' etymologically to imagination, suggesting that English Heritage, focused on factual history, misses this element.

He argues that places themselves should fire the imagination, serving as aids for creative visualization, which he considers a critical faculty for any extraordinary perspective.

Sharp's influences include his personal life, raising a young family, and observing the dichotomy between adult consumption of history and children's engagement with it. He also cites the RESearch publications of the early to mid-1980s as a significant influence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the intersection of the mundane and the extraordinary, particularly in how subtle, often overlooked, experiences can be perceived as paranormal. The 'Book Hauntings' article emphasizes the intuitive and uncanny aspects of human experience, while the 'Orbs' article rigorously debunks a popular photographic phenomenon, advocating for rational explanations grounded in scientific investigation. The interview with Andy Sharp introduces a perspective that blends historical inquiry with esoteric and magical interpretations, suggesting that mainstream historical accounts often neglect the imaginative and 'magical' dimensions of the past. The journal's overall stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to understand paranormal claims through rigorous investigation and anthropological perspectives, while also acknowledging the subjective and often profound nature of anomalous experiences.

This issue of Paranthropolgy: Journal of Anthropological Approaches to the Paranormal, Volume 5, Number 2, dated 2014, focuses heavily on the work of William Burroughs, particularly his "Moka Bar operation" and his use of tape recorders as a tool for "magickal" experimentation. The journal also features discussions on psychogeography, counter-culture, and a review of the 'Exploring the Extraordinary Conference'.

The Moka Bar Operation: Burroughs and Magickal Objectivity

The lead article, "Playback Hex: William Burroughs and the Magical Objectivity of the Tape Recorder" by James Riley, delves into William Burroughs's 1972 "operation" against the Moka Bar, a Soho coffee shop. Burroughs made recordings and took photographs of the premises, intercutting the tapes with noise from other locations and then playing them back in situ, taking more photographs. This process, repeated over three months, allegedly led to the Moka Bar's closure. Riley argues that this episode, often seen as a countercultural "guerrilla" act, is more accurately understood as a manifestation of Burroughs's broader interest in and practice of magic, understood as the direction and channelling of will to effect change.

The article explores how Burroughs integrated recording technologies, such as tape recorders, into his cut-up methodology, treating them as compositional tools alongside text. It highlights Burroughs's view that language and media are not fixed but malleable, subject to manipulation and re-writing. The concept of "magick" is discussed in relation to Burroughs's belief that reality is a material construct that can be reshaped through focused intention and intervention, with the tape recorder serving as a key instrument in this process.

Riley contrasts the reception of Burroughs as a practicing magician with academic interpretations that often view his later work as a departure from literature. He suggests that recognizing the tape recorder as a magical instrument helps to bridge these perspectives, demonstrating how Burroughs's creative practice was a confluence of writing, recording, and applied magic.

Influences and the English Heretic Landscape

An interview with an individual associated with "English Heretic" explores their project to commemorate diverse public figures, many excluded from mainstream remembrance. The interviewee discusses how personal commemoration brings them closer to understanding tragedy and the complex relationship between the living and the dead, likening it to a parasitic relationship in poltergeist experiences.

When asked about choosing recipients for "Black Plaques," the interviewee explains that many have "chosen" them, often through a process akin to channeling. An example given is the plaque for Joseph Kennedy Jr., which involved a pathworking using the location from Daphne du Maurier's "The Birds." This led to a vision of an RAF fighter pilot, which in turn led to researching Fairfield and the story of Joe Kennedy's demise. The project aims to extend the séance room to an urban and psychogeographic arena, embracing absurdity as a tool in magic.

The interviewee discusses the advantages of using fictional figures to explore psychopathology without glorifying real-life psychopaths, drawing on James Hillman's ideas about the psychopathic presence. The importance of experience, ritual, and place is emphasized, with location visits treated as ritualistic arenas where all actions are considered magically significant.

The discussion then turns to the influences on the "English Heretic landscape," citing writers like JG Ballard, Kenneth Grant, and James Hillman. These figures are seen as forming an axis that harmonizes seemingly dissonant paradigms of belief, bridging scientific, anti-occult, and occult worldviews. The interviewee expresses admiration for Carlos Castenada's work, particularly his exploration of creative visualization as a tool for manifesting the waking dream state.

The "English Heretic" project "The Underworld Service" is described as a series of recordings and texts exploring the Greek concept of "The Katabasis" (ritual descent to the underworld). This work is inspired by James Hillman's later work and Greek myths, tying into the cultural fascination with Greece in the 1970s, TV thrillers, and the works of Robert Graves and John Fowles.

A separate item highlights "Mondo Paranoia: A Medieval History Of The Early 1960s," an English Heretic release exploring the synchronicities of November 22nd, 1963 (the deaths of JFK, Aldous Huxley, and C.S. Lewis), and the release of The Beatles' second album and the first episode of Dr. Who. The release includes music constructed from forensic sampling of JFK's funeral and other audio elements.

Review: Exploring the Extraordinary Conference

The issue concludes with a review by T. Peter Park of the Sixth Exploring the Extraordinary ("EtE") Conference held at Gettysburg College in March 2014. The conference brought together academics and participants to discuss anomalous, paranormal, or spiritual phenomena. Park describes the "EtE" network as an "amphibious" interface between mainstream academia and subcultures exploring the extraordinary. The conference featured 23 presentations on topics ranging from ghosts and mediumship to UFOs and remarkable coincidences.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue consistently explores the intersection of the paranormal, the occult, and artistic/literary practice, particularly through the lens of William Burroughs. There is a strong emphasis on the idea of "magick" not as supernatural intervention but as a practical application of will and consciousness to manipulate reality. The journal also highlights the role of counter-culture, psychogeography, and unconventional methodologies in understanding these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the extraordinary, seeking to bridge academic research with the study of liminal and anomalous experiences, and valuing diverse perspectives on the nature of reality and consciousness.

This issue of *Paranthropology: Journal of Anthropological Approaches to the Paranormal* (Vol. 5 No. 2, dated 2014) delves into the multifaceted nature of paranormal phenomena through an anthropological lens. The journal features a collection of talks from a conference held in Gettysburg, exploring the intersection of science, religion, and the paranormal.

Key Themes and Discussions

The conference speakers addressed various aspects of paranormal investigation, challenging the prevailing scientific materialism and exploring alternative frameworks for understanding reality. A central theme was the 'third force' or middle zone between science and religion, where the paranormal operates.

Dr. Julie Beischel on Survival After Death

Dr. Julie Beischel, Director of Research at the Windbridge Institute, presented findings from 10 years of laboratory research. She discussed the reality of Anomalous Information Reception (A.I.R.) and argued for the probable conscious survival of the human personality after bodily death. Beischel highlighted that mediums often report a distinct feeling when communicating with discarnate personalities versus gathering ESP information from the living, supported by different EEG brain-wave patterns. She suggested that evidence of survival could offer comfort to the bereaved and challenge scientific materialism.

Christopher Laursen on Poltergeist Hauntings

Historian Christopher Laursen examined the shift in 20th-century explanations of poltergeist hauntings. He noted a move from attributing hauntings to ghosts or spirits to explaining them through psychic or biopsychic energies stimulated by psychological conflicts within households, particularly involving adolescents. Laursen advocated for greater attention to the general social setting and internal family conflicts, as well as considering neighbors and local ethnic conflicts.

Stephanie Boothby on Ghost Hunting

Stephanie Boothby, a graduate anthropology student, presented her participant-observer study of a Gainesville ghost-hunting group. She discussed how popular media, like paranormal reality television, has sparked interest but also created stereotypes of 'weekend warriors.' Boothby argued that many groups consist of serious researchers and that ghost hunting represents a growing popularity of alternative ways of thinking about the anomalous, supernatural, and afterlife, serving as a third option alongside religion and science.

Hayley McClean on Healing and Spirituality

Hypnotherapist Hayley McClean shared her personal journey of healing from rheumatoid arthritis through hypnosis and spiritual practices. She described combining positive thinking, hypnosis, meditation, and Reiki, finding that a spiritual outlook augments the healing process.

Marcel Cairo on Mediumship and Scientific Method

Marcel Cairo, a medium, discussed the challenges of mediumship, invoking Gene Wilder's quote, "You should never, never doubt something that no one is sure of." He was critical of skepticism towards spirit communications but staunchly disbelieved in physical manifestations like ectoplasm, deeming them fraudulent. Cairo advocated for re-energizing the scientific method with a 'dash of madness' to explore the paranormal, suggesting hypotheses like ESP and super-psi.

Jack Hunter on Physical Mediumship

Anthropologist Jack Hunter analyzed "Ectoplasm, Somatisation, and Stigmata: Physical Mediumship as the Development of Extraordinary Mind-Body States." He discussed his fieldwork at the "Bristol Spirit Lodge" and defined physical mediumship as the ability to channel unknown energies affecting the physical environment. Hunter observed phenomena like ectoplasm, alteration of facial features, and levitation, suggesting that physical mediumship might be a psychosomatic phenomenon and séances a form of biofeedback training.

Donnalee Dox on Visualizing Interiority

Donnalee Dox explored practices used to cultivate "inner peace" and the role of visual images in constructing an epistemology of interiority. She examined four genres of visual images related to mind-body dualism and three involving non-dual consciousness, questioning whether media celebrities promoting meditation do so effectively in a frenetic marketing atmosphere.

George P. Hansen on Liminality and the Paranormal

Parapsychologist George P. Hansen discussed the "betwixt and between" character of the paranormal, linking it to "liminality" and "anti-structure." He emphasized the role of myths and rituals in dealing with the supernatural and the importance of understanding "binary oppositions" and their mediation. Hansen suggested that the paranormal defies societal trends of rationalization and disenchantment.

Darryl Caterine on William James and Primitivism

Historian Darryl Caterine analyzed the academic fate of philosopher William James, arguing that his excision from the history of psychology was part of an ideological struggle to establish psychology as a legitimate science. Caterine discussed how James' belief in the "subliminal self" and his support for "psychical research" were seen as siding with the "primitive" and threatening professionalization.

John G. Sabol on Gettysburg's 'Memoryscapes'

Cultural anthropologist John G. Sabol critiqued pop-culture "paranormal" kitsch at Gettysburg, arguing that "edutainment" and "para-history" have replaced real ethno-history. He discussed the "ethnographic displacement" between past events and current beliefs, creating new supposed "ghosts" and haunting the marketing of the "Gettysburg Experience."

Jennifer Lykes on Critical Thinking and the Extraordinary

Jennifer Lykes discussed the challenges of encouraging critical thinking about extraordinary experiences among college students. She noted that critical thinking is often used to indoctrinate students into a dominant scientific materialism. Lykes emphasized the need for critical-but not dogmatically skeptical-thinking about experiences like out-of-body experiences and alien abductions.

Suzanne Clores on 'The Extraordinary Project'

Suzanne Clores introduced "The Extraordinary Project," her online collection of contributors' stories about coincidences, premonitions, and other unusual human experiences, inspired by her realization that such events happen across cultures.

Donna Sinclair Hogan and John Napora on Personal Encounters

Donna Sinclair Hogan shared her research into electronic voice phenomena (EVP) and instrumental trans-communication (ITC) after receiving a voice mail from her deceased brother-in-law. John Napora described uncanny dream visitations from his deceased father, suggesting a spiritual reality suppressed by mainstream Western paradigms.

Chase O'Gwin on Haunted Technology

Chase O'Gwin critiqued the methodologies and technologies used in paranormal investigations, particularly for ghosts and apparitions. He noted the historical degradation of spirit communications and proposed the term "technopathy" for psi influence on equipment malfunction. O'Gwin dismissed "orbs" as a 21st-century fad.

Eric Ouellet on UFOs and Social Psi

Eric Ouellet compared UFO sighting "waves" to poltergeist hauntings, suggesting UFOs are a giant poltergeist externalizing collective social tensions. He analyzed the Belgian UFO wave of 1989-1990, linking it to the collapse of the East European Communist bloc and a time of uncertainty.

Shannon Taggart on Photographing Spiritualism

Shannon Taggart discussed the close relationship between photography and Spiritualism, noting how both emerged in the mid-19th century and use each other to understand limitations. She shared her experiences photographing mediums and séances in Lily Dale, New York.

Sarah Metcalfe on Emotional Management in Spiritualism

Sarah Metcalfe described her experiences as a sociologist immersing herself in British and European spiritualist and esoteric subcultures, discussing the emotional management required for such research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

A recurring theme throughout the issue is the challenge to scientific materialism and the call for more open-minded approaches to the paranormal. The journal advocates for anthropological perspectives that can accommodate diverse beliefs and experiences, moving beyond rigid paradigms. There is a consistent emphasis on the 'liminal' or 'betwixt and between' nature of the paranormal, which defies easy categorization. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging interdisciplinary research and a deeper understanding of the human experience of the extraordinary, while also critically examining methodologies and potential for fraud.

This issue of *Paranthropology: Journal of Anthropological Approaches to the Paranormal* (Vol. 5, No. 2) features a review of a book on Satanic Ritual Abuse (SRA), a conference program on religious experience, and discussions on shamanism and exceptional psychology. The journal maintains an academic and anthropological perspective on paranormal and exceptional phenomena.

Review: 'Speak of the Devil: Tales of Satanic Abuse in Contemporary England' by J.S. La Fontaine

Reviewed by Michael J. Rush, this section critically examines J.S. La Fontaine's book, which delves into the 'satanic panics' of the 1980s and early 1990s. The review highlights La Fontaine's finding that, despite the widespread belief in adults sexually abusing children in rituals of Devil worship, there was no evidence of organized satanic ritual abuse. The phenomenon is compared to the witch-hunts of earlier European history, with the main similarity being an unverifiable belief in mystical evil. La Fontaine, a professor of anthropology at the London School of Economics, investigated the roles of the media, Christian fundamentalists, social workers, the police, and children in this process. The review notes that the allegations led to damaging consequences, including children being separated from families and successful prosecutions of genuine child abusers being jeopardized. The book outlines the development of the ritual abuse allegations in three phases: initial impetus from Christian fundamentalists and 'survivor' accounts, the appearance of accounts from young children, and the transition back to the adult world in psychotherapy when material evidence failed to materialize. The reviewer recommends the book for clinical psychologists and skeptics alike, emphasizing its importance in understanding how religion can impact real-world lives and potentially preventing future mistakes. The review also references the work of Kenneth Lanning of the FBI and the Joint Enquiry Team (JET) report.

Conference Program: The Study of Religious Experience in Lampeter

This section presents a draft program for a one-day conference held on July 4th, 2014, at Trinity Saint David, Lampeter. The conference aimed to explore the study of religious experience from various perspectives. Sessions included methodological reflections on studying religious experience, theological approaches, religious experience in Early Christianity, anthropological reflections, the study of religious experience in rituals, in China, and in cyberspace. Speakers included Dr. Fiona Bowie, Dr. Robert Pope, Dr. Catrin Williams, Dr. Bettina Schmidt, Dr. Maya Warrier, Dr. Thomas Jansen, and Dr. Gary Bunt.

Lectures Series: Talking with the Spirits: Mediumship and Possession

This section announces a lecture series featuring anthropologist Jack Hunter and psychologist David Luke, discussing their new edited book 'Talking with the Spirits: Ethnographies from Between the Worlds.' The lectures cover the anthropology of spirit possession and the incorporation of psychedelics into ayahuasca use for spirit possession. The event was scheduled for Tuesday, July 29th, at the October Gallery in London.

The Journal of Exceptional Experiences and Psychology (JEEP)

This section introduces JEEP, an online, international journal dedicated to the exploration of exceptional psychology. It covers phenomena traditionally associated with parapsychology, such as survival after death, out-of-body experiences, ESP, psychokinesis, mediumship, and hauntings, as well as cryptids and abduction scenarios. JEEP employs an integrative and phenomenological approach, encouraging submissions of manuscripts, creative writing, artwork, and video. The journal is peer-refereed and published biannually.

Book Announcement: Redefining Shamanisms

This section highlights a book titled 'Redefining Shamanisms: Spiritualist Mediums and Other Traditional Shamans as Apprenticeship Outcomes' by David Gordon Wilson. The book analyzes the development of shamanism as a concept within North American scholarship, comparing traditional Evenki shamanic apprenticeship with the new Spiritualist apprenticeship. It argues that Spiritualism is best understood as a traditional shamanism resulting from an apprenticeship in managing psychic experiences.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the anthropological study of paranormal and exceptional experiences, with a particular focus on the critical examination of phenomena like Satanic Ritual Abuse. The journal promotes a neutral, bracketed, and integrative approach, encouraging diverse methodologies. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine experiences and social panics or misinterpretations, often informed by religious or psychological biases. The editorial stance favors rigorous academic inquiry and the application of anthropological insights to understand complex human experiences related to the paranormal and the spiritual.