Psychology's Occult Doubles: Psychology and the Problem of Pseudo-Science

The rapid development of modern scientific disciplines in the nineteenth century was accompanied by the emergence of a number of pseudosciences. Phrenology, spiritualism, mesmerism, and psychical research were scorned by the new scientists, yet nonetheless attracted scores of followers. Similarly, psychology, the new science of the twentieth century, has spawned its own collection of pseudosciences: the therapeutic cults. How extensive are the differences between conventional science and pseudoscience? What are the criteria used to exclude certain theories and evidence, even when those espousing the theories use scientific methods? Perhaps more importantly, what are the peculiar characteristics of science that allow for the rise of pseudoscience around it? 'In Psychology's Occult Doubles ' addresses these questions. This book is one of the most complete examinations of pseudoscience available. This volume approaches the problem of pseudoscience from a historical perspective, examining several pseudosciences in detail. Astrology, alchemy, phrenology, mesmerism, spiritualism, psychical research, and therapeutic cults are given special attention; the authors trace the sources, appeal, and scientific claims of each. The conclusion reached is that individual psuedosciences are rejected for distinct historical reasons Science, the authors assert, is essentially pragmatic. Scientists test their theories within an established paradigm. Evidence and theories that fall outside that paradigm - pseudosciences - are rejected as irrelevant. Ultimately, Leahey and Leahey conclude, the appeal of pseudoscience is in its willingness to ask-and to answer-ultimate moral questions; to attempt to establish meaning. More than any other attribute, this willingness distinguishes pseudoscience from science. In an age when occult beliefs and therapeutic cults flourish, Psychology's Occult Doubles provides a complete, thoughtful analysis of their origin and significance.