The word “paranormal” is used for a wide scope of phenomena and experiences outside normal scientific knowledge and which cannot be explained by resorting to conventional principles and accepted facts. This phenomenon tends to contradict our widespread beliefs and belongs to the realms of the supernatural, metaphysical, or the inexplicable world. We still don’t know it all, and this creates hot debates between scientists, researchers, and the masses. In order to come to conclusions and sort facts from fiction, the paranormal needs to be investigated with an open mind but we must still be of acritical mind, grounded on empirical facts, common sense, and strict scientific methodology, just as any other research topic.

The paranormal includes the entire range of ghostly apparitions and unexplained haunting to psychic activity, near-death experiences, and unexplained physical phenomena like levitation, telekinesis, and precognition. These phenomena do tend to challenge our current understanding of the laws of physics and nature. This leads us to the possibility of forces beyond our present understanding as well as to the possibility of an alternative explanation. We need to approach this difficult and typically contentious subject in a balanced manner, with regard to each phenomenon. With  a healthy skepticism, and a willingness to consider alternative solutions.

Through the research of the paranormal, we are able to unlock new knowledge about the human experience, the essence of consciousness, and the secrets of the universe. We are also able to have a greater insight into the workings of the human mind, the strength of the human psyche, and the processes of perception and cognition in the construction of our reality. Finally, the paranormal provides a golden opportunity to question our assumptions, broaden our understanding, and expand the limits of humanity, stimulating us to probe the unknown and the unexplained with imagination, curiosity, and an open mind.