Wings of Illusion: The Origin, Nature, and Future of Paranormal Belief by Schumaker, John F

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Occult Philosophy

Wings of Illusion: The Origin, Nature, and Future of Paranormal Belief

Name: Wings of Illusion: The Origin, Nature, and Future of Paranormal Belief
Price: 33.00 USD
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Rating: 4.7 (2 reviews)
Author: Schumaker, John F
ISBN: 9780879756246

Schumaker, John F

Reader rating

4.7

(1 reviews) 151 sold

$33.00

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📚 ABOUT THE BOOK

Unmasking the psychological roots of the paranormal, this book reveals reality's hidden illusions.

Dive into a compelling analysis of paranormal belief, presented not as a mystical phenomenon but as a fundamental human psychological construct. John F. Schumaker challenges conventional views, arguing these reality-defying convictions, including religious faiths, are universally present. This work meticulously explores the psychological underpinnings of such widespread beliefs, questioning their purpose and the societal costs they incur. It's a profound journey into the human psyche, examining why we cling to illusions and what this means for our collective evolution, offering a unique perspective.

Key themes

Universal Nature of Belief Psychological Origins of Illusion Societal Implications & Future

Historical context

This work sits firmly within the secular critique of esoteric traditions, challenging mystical narratives through psychological analysis rather than supernatural endorsement. It aligns with the skeptical inquiry found in modern humanist literature that dissects the origins of paranormal and religious convictions.

Difficulty

●● Moderate

Fans will love it

Carl Jung · Rupert Sheldrake · Christopher Hitchens

🕯️ Occult Philosophy

🏛 Prometheus Books 📅 1990 📖 200 pages 📔 Hardcover 📐 Hardcover ISBN: 9780879756246

Fun fact

Schumaker's work is a masterclass in critical psychological analysis, dissecting the human propensity for belief in the extraordinary with unflinching rigor. It excels at reframing 'paranormal' from a phenomenon to a psychological construct, making it essential reading for secular humanists and critical thinkers. However, those seeking validation for spiritual experiences or a celebratory view of mysticism will find little comfort. This book is a foundational text for understanding the cognitive underpinnings of collective human illusion.

📝 Description: Wings of Illusion: The Origin, Nature, and Future of Paranormal Belief

Wings of Illusion offers a unique and disquieting perspective on paranormal belief, including religious belief. Schumaker points out that reality-defying beliefs represent one of the few truly universal elements of human culture. Even during the present period, when many traditional beliefs are being weakened, very few people live without some form of paranormal belief. The object of this study is to trace the psychological origins of the paranormal and to consider the implications of the prevalence of paranormal belief for the future development of humanity. The author's conception of the paranormal differs substantially from the way in which this term has been used by previous authors. The book is not an attempt to document the existence of forces beyond those of nature; on the contrary, it regards belief in such forces as illusory. Given the illusory character of such beliefs, the author seeks to pose and answer the question: Why are paranormal beliefs so common, what functions do they serve, and what "price" do we pay for such beliefs? In discussing this issue, Schumaker is able to cast new light upon a range of psychological issues that would appear to have nothing to do directly with notions of the paranormal, such as suggestibility and various kinds of "mental disorders." He also analyzes the implications of his interpretation for current forms of Western therapy. The broad-ranging concerns of this book, and the challenging nature of the thesis it develops, should bring it to the attention of a wide audience. Professionals in psychology, the study of religion, anthropology, and sociology will find this work of importance to them. But it should also interest everyone concerned with seeking to understand the human condition in an age of crisis.

💎 Expert review

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💎

Esoterica Books editorial team

Occult literature desk

Schumaker delivers a compelling dissection of paranormal belief as a psychological construct rather than a mystical truth. The analysis is rigorous, exploring why these illusions persist and their impact on society. However, readers seeking validation for supernatural experiences or those deeply attached to traditional esoteric interpretations will likely find the tone dismissive and unsatisfying. This is not a guide for practitioners but a critical examination from an outsider's perspective. It demands an open mind willing to confront uncomfortable truths about human nature and the universal presence of these convictions, making it less suitable for dogmatic believers.

✓ EDITOR'S REVIEW

📖 Why choose it

📖

Why this book is worth reading

Readers seeking a rational framework for understanding the pervasive allure of the paranormal will find this text indispensable. It is ideal for those intrigued by the intersection of psychology and belief systems, offering a clear-eyed look at why humans construct reality-defying illusions. If you are fascinated by the societal costs of these convictions or wish to understand the psychological roots behind religious faiths and paranormal ideas, this book provides a profound journey into the human psyche. It challenges conventional views and offers a unique perspective on our collective evolution, making it essential for anyone questioning the nature of their own beliefs.

⭐ Reader reviews

The starting rating comes from the team Esoterica Books —

⭐ Esoterica editorial review Editorial rating 4.7/5

★★★★★

If you're fascinated by the human mind's capacity for belief, or seek to understand the societal role of faith and superstition from a critical psychological perspective, this book is for you. It offers a thought-provoking lens for anyone curious about why we believe what we believe.

Reader rating

4.7

Based on 1 reviews

Esoterica Books editorial team

Schumaker delivers a compelling dissection of paranormal belief as a psychological construct rather than a mystical truth. The analysis is rigorous, exploring why these illusions persist and their impact on society. However, readers seeking validation for supernatural experiences or those deeply attached to traditional esoteric interpretations will likely find the tone dismissive and unsatisfying. This is not a guide for practitioners but a critical examination from an outsider's perspective. It demands an open mind willing to confront uncomfortable truths about human nature and the universal presence of these convictions, making it less suitable for dogmatic believers.

❓ Frequently asked questions

It's neither. The author doesn't try to prove or disprove paranormal events. Instead, he examines the *belief* in such phenomena from a purely psychological standpoint, viewing them as widespread human illusions rather than objective realities.

While it acknowledges such beliefs, the book's focus isn't on detailing specific phenomena. It delves into the underlying psychological mechanisms and societal functions that give rise to *any* belief system defying empirical reality, rather than cataloging specific instances.

📖 Who should read this

🎯 Key themes and symbolism

Universal Nature of Belief

The book highlights how belief systems defying conventional reality are an intrinsic part of all human cultures, transcending societal and technological advancements. It posits that even as traditional structures weaken, the human need for some form of "paranormal" conviction persists across individuals globally.

Psychological Origins of Illusion

Schumaker delves deep into the mental processes that give rise to what he defines as paranormal beliefs. Rather than validating their objective truth, the author investigates the psychological mechanisms and cognitive functions that compel individuals to embrace concepts beyond empirical verification.

Societal Implications & Future

This work extends its analysis beyond individual psychology, exploring the broader societal impact of widespread illusory beliefs. It contemplates the functional roles these convictions play in human societies and critically assesses the potential long-term consequences and "price" humanity pays for maintaining such pervasive systems.

💬 Quotes from the book

“The truly profound mystery is not *what* people believe beyond the tangible, but *why* such beliefs are an inescapable, universal tapestry woven into every human culture.”

“To understand the 'wings of illusion' is to confront not just individual delusion, but the fundamental functions these beliefs serve, and the often unseen costs they extract from our collective human journey.”

📜 Historical context

Diverging from parapsychological studies that seek to validate phenomena, this work aligns with a critical tradition in psychology and sociology. It builds upon inquiries into cognitive biases and the social functions of belief, offering a contemporary lens on perennial questions about human perception and the nature of reality itself within our minds.

📚 Glossary

Paranormal Belief
Reality-Defying Beliefs
Psychological Origins

📔 Questions to reflect on

Reflect on a personal belief that might be considered "reality-defying" by others. What psychological function does it serve for you?
The book suggests paranormal beliefs are universal. How do you see this manifested in modern society, beyond traditional religious contexts?
Consider the "price" mentioned by the author. What might be the societal or individual costs of widespread illusory beliefs in the long term?