COMMENT:A broad critique of supernatural beliefs, particularly the scientific search for the soul which is parapsychology. Humphrey describes the dissatisfactions of scientific materialism, and characterizes psychical research as a way of using science to recover the solace of spiritual beliefs. His arguments against psi are different than the common skeptical fare, and so worthy of careful attention. The "Argument From Unwarranted Design," noting that psi is supposed to have too many peculiar constraints which do not fit any supernatural explanation, is particularly useful as a way of showing skeptics are not burdened with producing a comprehensive alternative explanation. Humphrey also tries a logical argument against psi; this exposes some very serious conceptual difficulties with psi, but probably does not have the complete prohibitive force he claims. A very readable book, well worthwhile for anyone interested in psychic claims.
DATE:20010823
KEYWORDS:psi:philosophy religion
MISC:244p. (UK title: Soul-Searching: Human Nature and Supernatural
MISC:Belief)
PUBLISHER:Basic
SUBMITADDR:bibliographer@csicop.org
SUBMITNAME:Taner Edis
TITLE:Leaps Of Faith: Science, Miracles, and the Search for Supernatural Consolation
