Wiederkehr der Magie? - Zauberglauben und Wissenschaft

Abstract

The assertions made by the exponents of so-called parapsychology are disputed by the exponents of the scientific method. An examination is made of the research methods of German parapsychologist Bender who lately claims to have proven, among other things, the existence of ghosts and witchcraft. Analysis, however, confirms the criticism previously raised by medical men and criminal investigators: It shows a way of thinking which is steeped in occultism and wants to see its preconceived belief in "paranormal" phenomena confirmed; facts and criticism opposed thereto are passed over in an unscientific manner. Parapsychological argumentation shows parallels to magic-oriented pre-logical thinking. We are thus dealing not with a discipline of the natural sciences but with a superstition that assumes a scientific air. © 1972 Springer-Verlag Berlin • Heidelberg.