Skeptics how do you feel about the Paranormal section being in Science and Mathematics?

Question

I know yahoo had intended it to be more of a science subject instead of a belief subject but the modern popularity of the Paranormal is really a belief and not a science.

Just wondering how those of you who are actually in the science field or similar training feel about this.

Answer 1

Well, I think it's a little wacky. Going into the science category and seeing questions on "spirit guides", "shadow people", incessant requests to learn telekinesis and to tell your scariest ghost story is a little disconcerting. I make my living as a scientist and I'm concerned for the education of our kids today, so seeing science not just watered down but rather adulterated by lumping paranormal into it is really a shame.

On the flip side -- it certainly is possible and instructive to scientifically discuss the experiments and protocols used in studying the paranormal, and this would fit in the science category very well. Unfortunately, this kind of Q&A never happens here. In addition, having paranormal in the science category does offer an opportunity for exchange between believers and skeptics, and it offers a platform for helping those unfamiliar with science to understand what it is all about and what makes something pseudoscience.

So, all in all, I'm on the fence about it. There are pros and cons.

Answer 2

I'm not in the Science field.I'm just a interested Consumer.It's hard to say how I feel about labeling the Paranormal as Science.Personally I think the category should be re-named the Anti-Science section.Many questions belong somewhere else.Spooky story requests,mediums,demons that kind of stuff.
On the other hand I've learned some things.There are Paranormal Investigators and there are Ghost hunters.One goes out and looks into things.The other is just silly,getting scared having fun.While I don't think either will find anything.There is a difference.On the bright side.Someone thinking about going to Sillytown.Maybe they'll see something here to change there mind.

Answer 3

I'm not a skeptic...but I don't like it because it's so hard to find. I just "happened" upon it. No one who wants paranormal answers knows where to go. I don't believe it should go under "Mythology & Folklore" because it's not. (no matter what the skeptics say) lol...I think it would fit in more with "Religion & Spirituality" . I sure don't think the atheists fit in with R&S...but I guess that's about the same as the skeptics being into the Paranormal section. At least I'm SO GLAD we don't fight with each other like the ones on R&S. I think we have a higher quality of skeptics on here and I appreciate their input and have gotten very attached to them as part of this group. I do wish they'd give more "explanations" though..from their point of view as to why these things happen and what they are "scientifically". Thanks for letting me give my opinion.

Answer 4

I believe all plausible claims deserve to be heard out. If it makes sense, then study it. If the data support the hypothesis, then perhaps there's something to the claim. That's the method of science. Unfortunately, many paranormal phenomena never made it past the second step. That being said, I do not think it belongs in the science category. Once these phenomena are supported with scientific data, then they will cease to be *para*normal. Given the lack of scientific data supporting paranormal phenomena, I think the paranormal category belongs in with religion and mythology.

To be fair, the results of well-conducted tests of paranormal phenomena shouldn't be discounted out of hand. However, I am not aware of any such tests showing positive support of paranormal phenomena (and I am aware of the PEAR studies).

Answer 5

The majority of the discussion and questions in the Alt-Science category revolve around some major themes:

- How can I learn to.... (e.g. move things with my mind)
- Have you ever had this happen... (e.g. spooky noises at night)
- How to I join ghost hunters?
- Is this true, is there evidence for... (e.g. reincarnation)
- How can you believe? and Why don't you skeptics just go away?

Unfortunately, this category attracts those who are naive or children who watch Heroes. Much of the information is not presented in a scientific way, but there are true scientists that post in this category.

This is a valuable forum for those who are studying the topic to critically examine their ideas and practices. It is also a valuable forum for skeptics to be exposed to new information that is available in the field. When a respectful exchange of ideas occurs, this is a great forum. Unfortunately, we often see silly questions and simple, non-informative answers.

Answer 6

Since all paranormal claims collapse like a house of cards under the slightest application of the scientific method, I think it ought to be put into a different group. Preferably, right next to astrology.

Answer 7

Most laws of science and mathematics would say that Paranormal activity is a belief, therefor I believe that it doesn't belong in science and more as a belief. But hey, that's just me.

Answer 8

I brought this up once before. I don't think it should be here. On the other hand, there are those who like it here because they don't have to go as far from their favorite science forum to get here. They see the need to give legitimate answers.

Personally, I would like to see it elsewhere mainly because having it here gives people the false impression that it is a science.

Answer 9

I feel its best suited in this category, otherwise it would just be folklore and mythology, which is an already existant category.
Paranormal research afterall is really just a critical look at the evidence for folklore and mythology.

Answer 10

People use science to try to prove/disprove the paranormal so strictly speaking it is in the right catagory.