From MARK BASSETT
In ‘A new age dawns for science’ (Forum, 14 December) Robin Allen refers
to a result frequently cited in the parapsychological literature, that ‘sceptics
rarely obtain positive results in psi experiments . . . because their scepticism
inhibits the production of psychic phenomena’.
I’m sure that most readers will have realised that this too is a parapsychological
phenomenon, of a sort. However, (and this is the important point) I don’t
believe it!
My disbelief in this effect is in fact so total that I am prepared to
guarantee it never occurs in my presence and, for a modest fee, I am happy
to offer my services to any of the existing investigators of parapsychology.
No longer need sceptics worry that their beliefs will prevent their
results getting a fair hearing, for my ‘meta-sceptism’ will prevent their
doubts from influencing the outcomes of their experiments.
Advertisement
I anticipate great advances in New Age science, as well as in my personal
income – unless the whole enterprise is spoiled by some doubting Thomas
who refuses to take me seriously . . .
Mark Bassett New Malden Surrey
