Paranormal Theories & Historical Context Flashcards

What is the core idea behind residual hauntings?

Answer: An event repeats like a recording

Residual hauntings are believed to be non-interactive energy imprints of past events that replay under certain conditions.

What does the term 'poltergeist' mean?

Answer: Noisy spirit causing disturbances

Poltergeist is German for 'noisy ghost,' often associated with physical disturbances like moving or throwing objects.

Which historical figure is often cited in early spiritualism?

Answer: The Fox Sisters

The Fox Sisters played a pivotal role in popularizing spiritualism in the 19th century through claimed spirit communication.

What is the purpose of an EMF meter in paranormal investigation?

Answer: Measure electromagnetic fields

An EMF meter measures fluctuations in electromagnetic fields, which some believe may indicate paranormal activity.

What is the Stone Tape Theory?

Answer: Explains energy imprints on physical materials

The Stone Tape Theory proposes that buildings or materials can store emotional energy and play it back under certain conditions.

Why is folklore important in paranormal investigation?

Answer: To understand local ghost legends and patterns

Folklore provides historical context, common themes, and clues to local beliefs about paranormal events.

What role did the Society for Psychical Research play?

Answer: Investigated the paranormal with scientific methods

Formed in 1882, the SPR aimed to study psychic and paranormal phenomena scientifically.

Why are historical records important in investigations?

Answer: They confirm legends with factual support

Historical documents can validate reported events or deaths associated with a haunted site.

What is a common skeptical explanation for paranormal experiences?

Answer: Misinterpretation of normal stimuli

Psychological and environmental factors such as suggestion, fear, or low-frequency sound can explain many paranormal reports.