AUTHOR

Chris French

35 Articles
Chris French is Professor Emeritus in the Department of Psychology, Goldsmiths, University of London, where he is also Head of the Anomalistic Psychology Research Unit. He frequently appears on radio and television casting a sceptical eye over paranormal claims. He writes for the Guardian and The Skeptic magazine and is a former Editor of the latter. His most recent book is Anomalistic Psychology: Exploring Paranormal Belief and Experience. His next book, to be published by MIT Press in 2024, is The Science of Weird Shit: Why Our Minds Conjure the Paranormal.

Romance in the stones? The power of crystals vs the power of suggestion

Crystal healing continues to undergo a resurgence in popularity, but when put to the test, believers can't tell the difference between a real crystal or a fake

Psychics and mediums: Mad, bad, or dangerous to know?

Given that psychics aren't actually performing paranormal feats, is it fair to separate them into the deceitful and the deluded?

When predictions fail: UFO cults, QAnon and cognitive dissonance

When their predictions don't come true, cults are faced with a choice: accept reality, or rationalise the failure. Which road will Qanon take?

Is the US government in contact with an alien “galactic federation”?

Haim Eshed, former head of Israel’s Defense Ministry, claims aliens are working with the US government. I'd like to see some evidence.

On not being wrong: Personal reflections from a lifetime of skepticism

An important part of proper scepticism is to always be open to the possibility that you might be mistaken in your beliefs

Captured by Aliens? A History and Analysis of American Abduction Claims, by Nigel Watson

'Captured by Aliens?' is an excellent introduction to alleged alien contact, but misses the opportunity to update on previous editions

What James Randi meant to me: Chris French reflects on the passing of The Amazing Randi

Professor Chris French marks the passing of James Randi with a lookback at the influence Randi had on his life and career.

Has the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in an increase in ghostly encounters?

With pandemic-related anxiety and stress causing an increase in experience of sleep paralysis, we may well see an uptick in paranormal belief.
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