7/22/95 at 13:47

In the classic esp experiments, Rhine et al discovered subjects who seemed to exhibit high degrees of psi.  Skeptics would suggest the methodology was either fraudulent or sloppy and demand to observe for themselves.  When the skeptics would observe, the subjects could not perform as before.  The skeptics said that proved esp was not real.  The proponents said that the skeptics brought negative energies ("bad vibes") into the room, which interfered with the process that had been taking place before.  The skeptics said that was bullshit rationalization.

Question: How would you determine "scientifically" which explanation was right?

Answer:  You can't.  You need to choose on the basis of faith or whatever.

ID: 41977

(c) Earl Babbie 2000