The Nature of Mind

Western science teaches that our beings are governed by the laws of physics and our minds play no part. There are, however, flaws in this thinking, most prominently unexplained paranormal phenomena that defy explanation by modern theories of physics. Collected by parapsychologists, these data include extrasensory perception (ESP), poltergeist occurrences, and psychokinesis.
Much of the current data in parapsychology and their implications for understanding the true nature of the self are examined here. Beginning with a consideration of several instances of spontaneous psi, the book examines the theoretical explanations of paranormal phenomena. It covers the hypothesis and evidence that minds contain the so-called hidden variables that determine the outcomes of the quantum process, thus interweaving parapsychology with modern physics. The reader is also forced to consider in detail the relationship between the conscious mind and the physical brain and the evidence that minds survive the death of bodies.

Mathematical psychologist Douglas M. Stokes is a former associate editor of the Journal of Parapsychology and has contributed to various journals and publications on the subject. He lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Douglas M. Stokes

Format: softcover (6 x 9)
Pages: 269
Bibliographic Info: notes, bibliography, index
Copyright Date: 2014 [1997]
pISBN: 978-0-7864-7754-8
Imprint: McFarland

Acknowledgments viii

1. Introduction 1

2. Spontaneous Psi 4

3. Chasing the Poltergeist 25

4. Astral Wanderings 37

5. Healers, Shamans, Saints and Seers 49

6. Is Psi Real? 64

7. Time, Space and Mind 101

8. Mind and Matter 131

9. Smoke and Mirrors; Dreams and Ghosts 162

10. Reincarnation 180

11. Into the Twilight Zone 197

12. The Mind’s Fate Upon Death 201

13. Mind and Cosmos 216

14. In Conclusion 216

Notes 217

Bibliography 225

Index 253

• “A remarkably unbiased approach…thoroughly documented”—Choice
• “Provides an excellent introduction to someone approaching the study of paranormal phenomena for the first time and persons already versed in this field will find it a valuable work of reference”—Journal of Scientific Exploration
• “A most thought-provoking and entertaining survey…recommended to anyone with a dual interest in the philosophy of mind and the significance of parapsychological research”—Journal of the American Society for Psychical Research
• “Highly recommended”—College of Psychic Studies
• “A sound overview of serious parapsychological research…impressive”—Exceptional Human Experience
• “Useful…should be required reading in undergraduate psychology classes”—The Scientific and Medical Network