The European Journal of Parapsychology
The European Journal of Parapsychology (EJP) is a peer-reviewed scientific journal for research - particularly theoretical and theory-driven empirical work - relating to the field of parapsychology (defined as the study of communication or interaction between organisms and their environment that do not appear to rely on the established sensorimotor channels).
Published since 1975, this journal is now based primarily at the University of Derby. The Editor is Dr Ian Baker, and the Associate Editor is Paul Staples (along with Dr Paul Stevens at Bournemouth University). Visit the journal website at http://ejp.org.uk/
Psychology of Paranormal Phenomena
The Psychology of Paranormal Phenomena Research Cluster is an emerging research cluster that is just beginning to develop a research profile. The cluster is co-ordinated by Dr Ian Baker and has a diverse range of interests:
I am interested in the electrophysiological correlates of remote staring detection (sometimes referred to as "the feeling of being watched by others"), and the belief, experiences and personality factors associated with this phenomenon. I am also interested in the issues surrounding the investigation of apparitional experiences, including the practicalities, ethics and debates involved in these issues.
My main research interests in this area involve the phenomenology of mediumship, and beliefs in distance healing.
My main area of interest is in the power of suggestion in interpretation of paranormal phenomena, including environmental stimuli, peer pressure or 'expert' opinion. My research is mainly field based and I have conducted investigations at Alton Towers in Staffordshire and at Elvaston Castle in Derbyshire.
Eric Robinson [University of Birmingham]
I am currently a PhD researcher at the University of Birmingham, where I am primarily examining the role memory and hedonic responses in healthy and unhealthy eating. As an associate member of the Psychology of Paranormal Phenomena Research Cluster my main academic research interest is the testing of proposed extra-sensory abilities experimentally. My current and previous projects in this area have largely involved examining the proposed ability of ‘precognition’ in the natural population.
I am interested in the philosophical underpinnings of beliefs in parapsychological phenomena. In particular, how embedded are these beliefs in a dualist philosophy, and are they superimposed on a belief in fatalism or free will?
My interest in this area begin when I was asked to contribute to the teaching of a parapsychology module at my previous institution. My interests are mainly of a methodological nature, I'm particularly interested in the rigour applied to experimental parapsychology. I am currently collaborating with Dr Ian Baker on a systematic review/meta-analysis of the remote staring literature.
Andrew Wilson [Applied Social and Community Studies]
In general terms my primary area of research is the sociology of paranormal and apocalyptic belief and practice. I have recently conducted research on representations of millenarian beliefs on British television and also folk beliefs in the divinity of Diana, Princess of Wales. In addition I am currently researching attitudes towards magical practice amongst 'New Age seekers', as well as their spiritual journeys and eschatological beliefs.